This newest edition of The Hermetic Organ is a beautiful and evocative tribute to one of John Zorn’s biggest mentors, the pioneer West Coast visionary, Terry Riley. Performed Mat San Francisco’s historic Grace Cathedral during the epic concert series presented by Fred Barnes at the Great American Music Hall in September 2023 for Zorn’s 70th birthday, this is one of the most touching and personal of all Zorn’s organ recitals.

Present in the audience were a large number of the composer’s closest and oldest friends, and as a result the music has a deep spiritual edge. Looming over much of this music is the spirit of Terry Riley, one of Zorn’s early influences, and one of his dearest friends. Magical!