Please, Please, Please, any of you Brits out there, contact your local councilors or MP about the amazing service Ben performs for England each week. The underused churches and there amazing and ancient history, the introduction to organs rasping or whole whose soul he brings alive, the music and its stories he exposits, the chilly fingers each winter in an unheated medieval nave to bring this to our soul, all in service to the inspiring wisdom of your countrymen no longer with you. Can we get Ben Maton an MBE or at least funding deserves for his hard work, scholarship for our edification? We all know this channel is loved world wide.
Hi Elizabeth, Thank you so much for this, it really means a lot and I made a note of this comment for some encouragement. I really appreciate you writing here and it makes it all worthwhile to read comments like this. Thank you. Ben
Florence Nightingale, the heroine of the Crimean War, would have been amazed by Billy and his saxophone and his singing Bob Dylan with his guitar. But Ben is the Founder of the Feast, and what an amazing Feast it has become. It now outshines any comparable organ channel on RUclips. Bravo the Maton brothers!
Ben- as Church Warden at St Margaret’s it was great to welcome you and Billy. We get many visitors from all over the world and have a Service second Sunday in May every year to commemorate Florence Nightingale attended by FN nurses and Army representatives. We are fortunate to have an excellent local organist - Keith and also an organ scholar Robert from Bishop Wordsworth School Salisbury. You are welcome to come back to give an organ recital
If RUclips had an "Oscars" this video would surely win. Great history, great story-telling, great music. I think both Florence Nightingale and Alexander Ewing would have enjoyed Dylan. Well done.
Innovative pioneering Church Organist .detached from manicured media celebrity culture we now aspire to in 2024 .Attention to finite detail regarding the history of Churches is a feat in itself . Ben Maton is a mavercick character .He deserves recognotion.
Love, love this episode. I'm a 40 yr Registered Nurse - retired - in America. Such a wonderful tribute for her. Thank you for all you do. Your videos are wonderful. and so informative.
It is almost eerie to watch Billy. I hope Dylan gets a chance to see this video. What a strange feeling it would be for him to see himself as a young man come to life again in his prime. I've read that a Dylan biopic is in the works, and I gather that the Dylan role has already been cast. Unfortunate. Because Billy certainly could do it.
As war again begins to circle this globe, we need more than ever the song of Bob Dylan, sung by Billy. This is important beyond measure. Thank you!! Greetings from Canada.
@@SalisburyOrganist Thank you for the reply, Ben! We love you guys more by the day; you are growing a huge family out here of followers, as the importance of your work grows exponentially. You touch on the beauty of the countryside, the lovely old churches languishing with fewer congregations, the soulful organ-playing, and your thoughts and words and the vital history lessons. This a unique offering on RUclips, so much appreciated!
A beautiful episode. I expected no less. My grandmother was one of the first nurses. She trained at the London Hospital in Whitechapel in the early 1900s. I wear her engagement ring. Its sapphires and diamonds. I lost one of the sapphires and it took for ever to find another one as they were not cut like modern sapphires. It’s engraved inside “Whitechapel 1908”. Liz❤
What a treasured token of remembrance you have. It was an uphill battle for women wanting to be nurses before Florence Nightengale's era, we learned in nursing history. It seems whatever more or less haphazard nursing was done on or near the battlefield was often left to what were called back then "Ladies of the Night." (certainly preferable to no one!). Women of "breeding and quality" were strongly discouraged -- as was Florence -- from being actively engaged in nursing. Victorian rules dictated that they were not to have a glimpse of a man in his -- ahem-- underwear -- until their wedding night. And even then, the joke was that basically the only advice mothers gave to their daughters was to: "close your eyes and think of England," So, for Florence to be able to turn around that prudish take on whether or not "genteel women" could be good nurses, took some strength of character and common sense. Kudos to your grandmother's generation.
@@kesmarnin one census she is listed as a domestic servant. They lived in Brighton. Her sister was married and lived in London and my grandmother persuaded her father to let her live with her older sister in London and train as a nurse.
The Wellow church of St Margaret of Antioch has many family associations. My wife's grandfather - the rev. plant was vicar. I was married there and my son was christened there. My brother in law cuts the grass and rings bells, and my sister in law cleans the chuch buildings. Your video was very meaningful for us expatriates who live in Canada.
If only I had the wealth I would give to you what you deserve for this service to the Lord and church music thank you Ben and Billy singing was good as well
It should be remembered that Florence Nightingale was a skilled statistician and skilled and innovative in the graphical presentation of statistical data, which helped her to get her arguments across to the army top brass.
This is my favorite channel on yt! A hobby of mine is visiting old churches with my husband. You do it better because you bring the church back to life when you visit!
Florence Nightengale created and established the nursing vocation. She was a holy woman, a saint really, and strong, smart and practical. Just her institution of the need for cleanliness in hospitals I believe was revolutionary. She connected disease with unsanitary conditions before germ theory had been formally established.
I somehow missed this episode when it first came out. But it's so moving to find this now. As a recently retired nurse, a serious clarinet player and a new sop sax doubler, congrats to Billy for taming that beast! (that was a surprise on your channel!). And a heartfelt thanks to him for that chilling Dylan piece. wow.
Absolutely loved this tribute to the history of this church, that fabulous organ, and to the heroes who fought to keep Britain free. Kudos to your brother! Fine job on the sax and his song at the end. It reminded me of a folk singer Bob Dylan back in the 60's here in the states. Wonderful episode! As for the 'danger of guns', It's not the 'danger of guns', it's the 'danger of the person MISHANDLING the gun where shootings occur and accidents do happen. This is why we here in the states place the highest emphasis in training on proper safe handling, safety and knowledge of firearms BEFORE a weapon is placed in anybody's hands--legally that is. Criminals with guns kill people. Responsible gun owners over here do not because we know when NOT to shoot!!! Aside from all that, keep up these wonderful musical videos (I'm a sax player myself) THe poetry and historic quotes are WONDERFUL! My best to both of you!!!
I was a pupil at Embly park from 1962/5. I was learning the organ previously but had permission to practise on St Margaret's organ. I guess it will have been cleaned etc by now. That was 60 years ago! Thanks for the tour Ben. Excellent.
Brilliant visit to St Margaret’s . We were pleased you crossed the Wiltshire border and came to Hampshire. We welcome many visitors from all over the world to pay respect to Florence Nightingale. Perhaps you will come back one day to give an organ recital. Roy Perry Church Warden
Wow! What a wonderful video from two talented brothers. I really enjoyed everything about it and learning things about Florence Nightingale that I never knew before. Thank you both.
Brilliant video. It's great to see Billy's musical talents shine forth. I loved the historical backstory for Florence Nightingale and her fellow parishioners.
I came of age in America at the end of the horrors of the Vietnam War. I'd later go on to a 32 yr career as an ICU nurse, culminating in the politicization of the worst public health crisis in a Century, the Covid-19 pandemic. Your tribute to Florence Nightingale stirs up such sad irony in all of us who knew better but were helpless to save us from our worst inclinations. It was shocking as the politicians here in the U.S. thwarted the hard won lessons learned and promoted by Florence Nightingale on the battlefields of Crimea. The benefits of isolation, masking, aseptic technique and health hygiene in the prevention & spread of infection & disease. Your tribute becomes more poignant that in reflection, we have learned nothing from the history that preceded us more than a Century ago. Her statistics, cold hard scientific data supported her reformations while in the 21st Century political motives and money needlessly killed over a million Americans and bitterly divide us for a generation to come. I am retired today and wish to visit this churchyard memorial to thank her. And apologize for an entire nation. This country voted in our politicial leaders. We got the government we deserved. Leaders who failed us. In 50 days we go again to make these choices. Pray that we've learned something. Thank you again.
I share this video when I wish to brag to friend or family about the many talents of the magically musically gifted brothers Maton.😊I shared recently with a dear friend whom i have known since our early childhood. She now being 78 and I 80. My friend is a true lover of all music and is a recent past president of our Portland, OR, opera guild. After she had heard Ben and Billy at Florence Nightengales burial church, I asked her reaction. Her reply...she wept. She wasnt alone. Ben, Billy, and Anastasia kitty are treasured in this home and extended family. Bless you.❤
From a Texas fan: This is one of my favorite you-tube presentations ever. I lived in Istanbul for 10 years, most of that time as Director of Nurses at the Amiral Bristol Hastanesi (American Hospital). I was given permission by Turkish military to visit “Scutari” Uskadar Barracks, on the Asian side of Istanbul, an active military base to see the apartment where Florence Nightingale lived during her time there. It was very moving. I have an antique lantern from that period like ones FN would carry ( not a candlestick!) Also, visited graves of British soldiers from the Crimean War buried there. I was the organist at the “Dutch Chapel” International Church of Istanbul (chapel on grounds of the Dutch Counsulate) that had an old pipe organ from a French Convent that had been in old Constantinople! I’ve told friends on Facebook about your channel. Some have been church organists and musicians so I knew they would really like your channel. Hopefully other friends tuned you in!
That's a wow from me too. My first reaction to Billy's pic on RUclips was "Heaven's, he's got Dylan playing with him" - I trust I'm not the only one who sees a resemblance from 1963 Bob to 2024 Billy! I know Bob's now 83 years old but I'm pretty sure he'd approve. 🙂 Anyway Ben and Billy, thanks so much for the visit, commentary and of course the fabulous music.
Ben, I am so touched. Ernest Martin Skinner didn't invent the piston. But, he was the first to create flexible presets to actuate the specific stop knobs to "open" and "close" along with the rank of pipes selected. He invented the first Combination Action Machine, literally a computer built out of wood, leather and air pressure, to allow an organist to change the selected stops with the selected piston. I know, because my church, Independent Presbyterian Church, in Birmingham, Alabama USA, had a dedicated room for the organ's Combination Action Machine, a room-sized brilliant creation by EMS. I suspect this organ is a creation by Willis.
Wow. I have watched many of your videos here in the US. This one was exceptional. As a church organist I appreciate your musicianship, but in addition to that, I appreciate your sensitivity to the grandeur of God's world. It was great to see the Brothers Maton performing together. Billy's solo was very moving, especially in the midst of so many conflicts around the globe. Please know you are making a difference in this world!
There’s so much to celebrate in this extraordinary video. The professional way you present these videos is unrivalled. You are right in what you say; there’s no one else doing what you do. Oh… that beautiful Conacher organ ! So well maintained. A great choice of music, and more of Billy’s talent. Worth watching several times over as there’s so much detail easily missed.
Delightful video, I have a little contribution to add to Florence Nightingale, I trained as a nurse in the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, the most senior matron, known as the number 10 , Miss Cullen she worn distinctive cap , which was tied under her chin, with lace embroidered finishing. This is only allowed to be worn by a nurse trained at St Thomas hospital in London, who becomes a matron elsewhere. St Thomas’s was the first established hospital in Great Britain by Florence Nightingale. A truly Great Lady .
An excellent episode ,thank you Ben and Billy. Visited St Margaret's and the memorial to The Lady with the Lamp 12 years ago. The whole area simply reeks of history.
Thank you for this wonderful episode. I enjoyed the opening with the Florence quote and how it related so precisely to the organ & music choice. It is fascinating to think about the organ’s healing power. The words & playing of ‘The King of Love my Shepherd is’ were incredibly powerful & I loved the sound of this particular organ. Wow, Billy has a terrific voice! Thank you Ben & Billy for creating such unique, innovative, in-depth & moving content. There’s always something new and inspiring that I take from your videos each week.
'The king of love my shepherd is' has transported me straight back to my schooldays when we used to belt out hymns every morning in assembly. Thanks Ben!
Brilliant research, Ben. The futility of war! The soft stops of that organ are so sweet. The soprano sax and organ go surprisingly well together. Such a beautiful old song with a sentiment to match. The Dylan song is very hymn like in its structure and poetry. Aren’t all hymns message songs? Well done Billy. Don’t be shy. Look into the camera and imagine all us viewers appreciating what you do! A moving start to my Sunday morning.
I really appreciated this episode; Florence Nightingale was a remarkable human and it is so great to see (virtually) such an important site in her history. Thank you very much for the backstory of the Crimean War as well; this American has only a fuzzy knowledge of the conflict. Please also pass along my admiration for Billy's performance; I like his voice more than Dylan's, and in turn his rendition resonated more with me than Dylan's. (Sacrilege? I think not. 🙂)
Billy’s song was GREAT!!! I just saw the new Dylan movie yesterday and I can tell you Billy is much better than the guy who played Dylan. Maybe better than Dylan himself. Thanks for what you do Ben. Love watching your videos 💕💕
You always bring me such peaceful moments. I enjoy your videos so much. Something you said bought to mind something I heard many years ago "Piano's are "active" pipe organs are "passive". And I think that the pipe organ sings of the sole. Thankyou so much for sharing your beautiful talent and bringing the beauty of the pipe organ into my humble little home here in Omaha Neb.
Hello Ben, I have enjoyed your offerings for many months now, but I had to write upon watching this video as our paths have crossed. I am an organist currently at the Anglican Parish in Summerside PEI Canada - but I am currently back at my former Parish in Fredericton, New Brunswick to play in a concert. The Organ at St. Peter's was built by Henry Jones and was brought to Fredericton from England by our first Bishop, John Medley. I will be mentioning the Henry Jones organ you played at London Bridge in my talk about the Organ. During Bishop Medley's tenure at Christchurch Cathedral (which he built), Alexander Ewing's regiment was stationed in New Brunswick and he was an Organ Scholar at our Cathedral. So, Jerusalem the Golden is held in very high regard here, and it is usually sung at all important services. Keep up the good work - I thoroughly enjoy watching you discover these buildings and hearing your wonderful musical offerings. Sandy Gereau Fraser
I had heard that Nightingale was rather oddly and strongly opinionated in spots; that's clearly a spot :-) When I was a small boy I went to sleep listening to my dad play Chopin and Beethoven on our piano, and that was soothing and healing indeed.
What great timing! Dylan just turned 83 on May 24th. Maybe you were taping this then? Billy does a great Bob Dylan. Loved the Florence Nightingale history, hymns and the church. Thanks!
I believe it was Florence Nightingale's meticulous record keeping & statistical analysis that won the day, rather than specific nursing skill. Her pioneering record keeping of casualty figures meant the statistics of those dying in hospitals, who should have lived could no longer be ignored. This in turn led to improvements in nursing care following treatment for wounds & a far greater survival rate. Prior to this, many of those receiving treatment simply died of infection anyway.
That’s some serious piano slander within the first couple minutes! Great content as always, I’ve played organ off and on for about 3 years and it seems so alien compared to my much greater experience at the piano
Billy and Ben.... Thank you so much for the powerful and moving Masters of War by Bob Dylan... As a war veteran myself I have always been amazed by Dylan's understanding of this miserable truth..... You guys are excellent....
I remember as a student architect going to Istanbul with the University of Cambridge in the 90s and seeing the British Crimean Graveyard over the Bosphprpus River… Nobody else seemed remotely interested in it but me… Beyond stirring and immensely sad to see the old Christian graves there… Florence Nightingale was clearly a wonderful lady. She must have been a devout Christian and British patriot. You two did her proud here with this episode in memoriam. (…And Dylan but no Tennyson? That was different… but I’m sure the older poet - as excellent as he was - would approve all the same). God Bless My membership coming soon (all the way from Mexico)
Wow, wow, wow! Being a Dylan fan I never guessed that I would come across a Bob Dylan song in your videos! But it fits so well! Eccellent interpretation. Giving the lyrics a fresh impact. Thank you!
A beautiful melody well done. I first became aware of Highland Cathedral when Hong Kong was handed over to china in 1997, it is reported that it was a favourite of the Last Governor of China China and it was played as he left the Governors House for the last time.
Such an interesting episode highlighting Florence Nightingale. What sadness that someone would pinch the shrapnel cross. Beautiful hymn selection, thank you, Ben. Lovely to see two musical brothers working together 🎶
Wow indeed! Ben, this was without doubt the best of your excellent videos. Billy's rendition of Bob Dylan's song was so good I've had to play it three times already. That organ is absolutely stunning and quite obviously been kept up splendidly! I'm now seventy-five years young and living on a very tiny pension in the deep woods of Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. About the only thing I can do now is "pay attention," otherwise I'd happily chip in to support your wonderful efforts. Unfortunately, when I moved here, I had to leave my Conn Artiste organ behind. 🧐🎹 + 🎷
Please, Please, Please, any of you Brits out there, contact your local councilors or MP about the amazing service Ben performs for England each week. The underused churches and there amazing and ancient history, the introduction to organs rasping or whole whose soul he brings alive, the music and its stories he exposits, the chilly fingers each winter in an unheated medieval nave to bring this to our soul, all in service to the inspiring wisdom of your countrymen no longer with you. Can we get Ben Maton an MBE or at least funding deserves for his hard work, scholarship for our edification? We all know this channel is loved world wide.
Hi Elizabeth,
Thank you so much for this, it really means a lot and I made a note of this comment for some encouragement. I really appreciate you writing here and it makes it all worthwhile to read comments like this. Thank you.
Ben
Loved world wide.❤
Love, love The King of Love My Shepherd Is! Haven't sung it in a church since I was a girl. Fun alto part, lovely words.
Florence Nightingale, the heroine of the Crimean War, would have been amazed by Billy and his saxophone and his singing Bob Dylan with his guitar. But Ben is the Founder of the Feast, and what an amazing Feast it has become. It now outshines any comparable organ channel on RUclips. Bravo the Maton brothers!
Love this. Thanks Noel
A World without music is a World without a Soul
Ben- as Church Warden at St Margaret’s it was great to welcome you and Billy. We get many visitors from all over the world and have a Service second Sunday in May every year to commemorate Florence Nightingale attended by FN nurses and Army representatives. We are fortunate to have an excellent local organist - Keith and also an organ scholar Robert from Bishop Wordsworth School Salisbury. You are welcome to come back to give an organ recital
What a magnificent church it is. Greetings from North Carolina, US.
Absolute delight. Thank you so much Roy for showing us around. Too much for one video here!
Yes but please pay him + expenses!
What a warm tribute from Mr Roy Perry. So uplifting.
If RUclips had an "Oscars" this video would surely win. Great history, great story-telling, great music. I think both Florence Nightingale and Alexander Ewing would have enjoyed Dylan. Well done.
Makes it all worthwhile so thank you!
Innovative pioneering Church Organist .detached from manicured media celebrity culture we now aspire to in 2024 .Attention to finite detail regarding the history of Churches is a feat in itself . Ben Maton is a mavercick character .He deserves recognotion.
The breadth and depth of history, the beauty, reverence, and service Ben bequeaths us -- simply awe inspiring.
Thank you, Billy and Ben. I've never fought in a war and I pray I will never have to. Your remembrances in this episode left me in tears.
If you’re scrolling comments while watching the video, stay till the end! Billy’s performance is superb.
Thanks Matthew, I’ll let him know :)
How did you know I was doing that?😊
Love, love this episode. I'm a 40 yr Registered Nurse - retired - in America. Such a wonderful tribute for her. Thank you for all you do. Your videos are wonderful. and so informative.
Billy, singing Bob Dylans music sent chills up my spine. He tells the tale as well as Mr. Dylan himself. I hope you'll have him perform often, for us.
It is almost eerie to watch Billy. I hope Dylan gets a chance to see this video. What a strange feeling it would be for him to see himself as a young man come to life again in his prime. I've read that a Dylan biopic is in the works, and I gather that the Dylan role has already been cast. Unfortunate. Because Billy certainly could do it.
Love everything you do on this channel ❤
He’ll be performing more regularly in the next few months I hope. His work means he can’t always be around to help out, but I love it when he does ...
@@SalisburyOrganist
We love having Billy on.❤
As war again begins to circle this globe, we need more than ever the song of Bob Dylan, sung by Billy. This is important beyond measure. Thank you!! Greetings from Canada.
Very TRUE!❤😢
Canada here too - So sad that sometimes War is necessary - especially in times like this when we see so much Jew Hate as if it were the 1930s.
It was a very poignant church. Sometimes videos move in a direction I never expected, and this one certainly did.
@@SalisburyOrganist Thank you for the reply, Ben! We love you guys more by the day; you are growing a huge family out here of followers, as the importance of your work grows exponentially. You touch on the beauty of the countryside, the lovely old churches languishing with fewer congregations, the soulful organ-playing, and your thoughts and words and the vital history lessons. This a unique offering on RUclips, so much appreciated!
@@timothyj1966 Nothing to do with killing 41k Palestinians and constantly lying?
Retired from 40 years of nursing. Thank you brothers.
You’re welcome and so glad this meant something to you!
This channel is an oasis of depth and beauty. I so appreciate the history and reverence for the underlying spiritual and cultural aspects. ❤️💐
Wow! Ben you and Billy have really excelled on this episode That is an amazing church.
I’m already at work on the next video !
Jerusalem the Golden was wonderful! Thank you and be blessed.
A beautiful episode. I expected no less.
My grandmother was one of the first nurses. She trained at the London Hospital in Whitechapel in the early 1900s. I wear her engagement ring. Its sapphires and diamonds. I lost one of the sapphires and it took for ever to find another one as they were not cut like modern sapphires. It’s engraved inside “Whitechapel 1908”.
Liz❤
What a treasured token of remembrance you have. It was an uphill battle for women wanting to be nurses before Florence Nightengale's era, we learned in nursing history. It seems whatever more or less haphazard nursing was done on or near the battlefield was often left to what were called back then "Ladies of the Night." (certainly preferable to no one!).
Women of "breeding and quality" were strongly discouraged -- as was Florence -- from being actively engaged in nursing. Victorian rules dictated that they were not to have a glimpse of a man in his -- ahem-- underwear -- until their wedding night. And even then, the joke was that basically the only advice mothers gave to their daughters was to: "close your eyes and think of England," So, for Florence to be able to turn around that prudish take on whether or not "genteel women" could be good nurses, took some strength of character and common sense. Kudos to your grandmother's generation.
@@kesmarnin one census she is listed as a domestic servant. They lived in Brighton. Her sister was married and lived in London and my grandmother persuaded her father to let her live with her older sister in London and train as a nurse.
@@lizwilliams14 Her father, sister and she certainly made the brave (and I believe, correct) decision.
Thank you for honoring Florence Nightingale.
The Wellow church of St Margaret of Antioch has many family associations. My wife's grandfather - the rev. plant was vicar. I was married there and my son was christened there. My brother in law cuts the grass and rings bells, and my sister in law cleans the chuch buildings. Your video was very meaningful for us expatriates who live in Canada.
If only I had the wealth I would give to you what you deserve for this service to the Lord and church music thank you Ben and Billy singing was good as well
SO KIND! Thank you Barrie
It should be remembered that Florence Nightingale was a skilled statistician and skilled and innovative in the graphical presentation of statistical data, which helped her to get her arguments across to the army top brass.
Ben you were missed last week😊 (and so was Billy)
This is my favorite channel on yt! A hobby of mine is visiting old churches with my husband. You do it better because you bring the church back to life when you visit!
Florence Nightengale created and established the nursing vocation. She was a holy woman, a saint really, and strong, smart and practical. Just her institution of the need for cleanliness in hospitals I believe was revolutionary. She connected disease with unsanitary conditions before germ theory had been formally established.
Quite. Another smashing presentation by the brothers Maton! Thanks and brgrds to you and Billy.
That’s so kind :) Thank you
This is a church I have taken services for as a 'locum' priest. Always a warm welcome. So glad you found the gun!
I somehow missed this episode when it first came out.
But it's so moving to find this now. As a recently retired nurse, a serious clarinet player and a new sop sax doubler, congrats to Billy for taming that beast! (that was a surprise on your channel!). And a heartfelt thanks to him for that chilling Dylan piece. wow.
Masters of War is such a powerful song, and sadly not much has changed. Thank you both for this wonderful film.
Great singing Billy. 👍
Wow. What a great video. Billy's talents shine. And the music was superb.
Absolutely loved this tribute to the history of this church, that fabulous organ, and to the heroes who fought to keep Britain free. Kudos to your brother! Fine job on the sax and his song at the end. It reminded me of a folk singer Bob Dylan back in the 60's here in the states. Wonderful episode! As for the 'danger of guns', It's not the 'danger of guns', it's the 'danger of the person MISHANDLING the gun where shootings occur and accidents do happen. This is why we here in the states place the highest emphasis in training on proper safe handling, safety and knowledge of firearms BEFORE a weapon is placed in anybody's hands--legally that is. Criminals with guns kill people. Responsible gun owners over here do not because we know when NOT to shoot!!! Aside from all that, keep up these wonderful musical videos (I'm a sax player myself) THe poetry and historic quotes are WONDERFUL! My best to both of you!!!
Thank you Ben and Billy. Showing new strings to your bows.
I was a pupil at Embly park from 1962/5. I was learning the organ previously but had permission to practise on St Margaret's organ. I guess it will have been cleaned etc by now. That was 60 years ago! Thanks for the tour Ben. Excellent.
Brilliant visit to St Margaret’s . We were pleased you crossed the Wiltshire border and came to Hampshire. We welcome many visitors from all over the world to pay respect to Florence Nightingale. Perhaps you will come back one day to give an organ recital. Roy Perry Church Warden
Wow! What a wonderful video from two talented brothers. I really enjoyed everything about it and learning things about Florence Nightingale that I never knew before. Thank you both.
Brilliant video. It's great to see Billy's musical talents shine forth. I loved the historical backstory for Florence Nightingale and her fellow parishioners.
I came of age in America at the end of the horrors of the Vietnam War. I'd later go on to a 32 yr career as an ICU nurse, culminating in the politicization of the worst public health crisis in a Century, the Covid-19 pandemic. Your tribute to Florence Nightingale stirs up such sad irony in all of us who knew better but were helpless to save us from our worst inclinations. It was shocking as the politicians here in the U.S. thwarted the hard won lessons learned and promoted by Florence Nightingale on the battlefields of Crimea. The benefits of isolation, masking, aseptic technique and health hygiene in the prevention & spread of infection & disease. Your tribute becomes more poignant that in reflection, we have learned nothing from the history that preceded us more than a Century ago. Her statistics, cold hard scientific data supported her reformations while in the 21st Century political motives and money needlessly killed over a million Americans and bitterly divide us for a generation to come. I am retired today and wish to visit this churchyard memorial to thank her. And apologize for an entire nation. This country voted in our politicial leaders. We got the government we deserved. Leaders who failed us. In 50 days we go again to make these choices. Pray that we've learned something. Thank you again.
I share this video when I wish to brag to friend or family about the many talents of the magically musically gifted brothers Maton.😊I shared recently with a dear friend whom i have known since our early childhood. She now being 78 and I 80. My friend is a true lover of all music and is a recent past president of our Portland, OR, opera guild. After she had heard Ben and Billy at Florence Nightengales burial church, I asked her reaction. Her reply...she wept. She wasnt alone.
Ben, Billy, and Anastasia kitty are treasured in this home and extended family. Bless you.❤
From a Texas fan: This is one of my favorite you-tube presentations ever. I lived in Istanbul for 10 years, most of that time as Director of Nurses at the Amiral Bristol Hastanesi (American Hospital). I was given permission by Turkish military to visit “Scutari” Uskadar Barracks, on the Asian side of Istanbul, an active military base to see the apartment where Florence Nightingale lived during her time there. It was very moving. I have an antique lantern from that period like ones FN would carry ( not a candlestick!) Also, visited graves of British soldiers from the Crimean War buried there. I was the organist at the “Dutch Chapel” International Church of Istanbul (chapel on grounds of the Dutch Counsulate) that had an old pipe organ from a French Convent that had been in old Constantinople! I’ve told friends on Facebook about your channel. Some have been church organists and musicians so I knew they would really like your channel. Hopefully other friends tuned you in!
Fascinating memories, thank you for bringing them here.
Billy, that was incredible. Thank you.
What a talented family you are. Loved this video ❤
That's a wow from me too. My first reaction to Billy's pic on RUclips was "Heaven's, he's got Dylan playing with him" - I trust I'm not the only one who sees a resemblance from 1963 Bob to 2024 Billy! I know Bob's now 83 years old but I'm pretty sure he'd approve. 🙂 Anyway Ben and Billy, thanks so much for the visit, commentary and of course the fabulous music.
You've taught me a new hymn again, Jerusalem the Golden. Fortunately, I was able to download the music. I will definitely play this one in my church.
Lovely organ you are playing on it sounds very nice regards jan .
Ben, I am so touched. Ernest Martin Skinner didn't invent the piston. But, he was the first to create flexible presets to actuate the specific stop knobs to "open" and "close" along with the rank of pipes selected. He invented the first Combination Action Machine, literally a computer built out of wood, leather and air pressure, to allow an organist to change the selected stops with the selected piston. I know, because my church, Independent Presbyterian Church, in Birmingham, Alabama USA, had a dedicated room for the organ's Combination Action Machine, a room-sized brilliant creation by EMS. I suspect this organ is a creation by Willis.
Wow. I have watched many of your videos here in the US. This one was exceptional. As a church organist I appreciate your musicianship, but in addition to that, I appreciate your sensitivity to the grandeur of God's world. It was great to see the Brothers Maton performing together. Billy's solo was very moving, especially in the midst of so many conflicts around the globe. Please know you are making a difference in this world!
Thanks Kevin, I always hope these films are meaningful to people
There’s so much to celebrate in this extraordinary video. The professional way you present these videos is unrivalled. You are right in what you say; there’s no one else doing what you do. Oh… that beautiful Conacher organ ! So well maintained. A great choice of music, and more of Billy’s talent. Worth watching several times over as there’s so much detail easily missed.
This brings back pleasant memories for me - my son attended Embley School (in the old house) in the 1990s.
A most enchanting video; and Billy is very good.
Delightful video, I have a little contribution to add to Florence Nightingale, I trained as a nurse in the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, the most senior matron, known as the number 10 , Miss Cullen she worn distinctive cap , which was tied under her chin, with lace embroidered finishing. This is only allowed to be worn by a nurse trained at St Thomas hospital in London, who becomes a matron elsewhere. St Thomas’s was the first established hospital in Great Britain by Florence Nightingale.
A truly Great Lady .
I admire Your sensitivity!!!!!!!!!!! THANKS!!!!!!
You’re welcome, thanks ☺️
Billy does a very creditable Bob Dylan. Well done to you both.
An excellent episode ,thank you Ben and Billy. Visited St Margaret's and the memorial to The Lady with the Lamp 12 years ago. The whole area simply reeks of history.
Thank you so much, Brothers Maton, for speaking to my heart and to my soul. Have a blessed remainder of your weekend.
Thank you for this wonderful episode. I enjoyed the opening with the Florence quote and how it related so precisely to the organ & music choice. It is fascinating to think about the organ’s healing power.
The words & playing of ‘The King of Love my Shepherd is’ were incredibly powerful & I loved the sound of this particular organ.
Wow, Billy has a terrific voice! Thank you Ben & Billy for creating such unique, innovative, in-depth & moving content. There’s always something new and inspiring that I take from your videos each week.
'The king of love my shepherd is' has transported me straight back to my schooldays when we used to belt out hymns every morning in assembly. Thanks Ben!
Magnificent. Nightengale and Dylan and that church.....
Splendid tribute from the brothers Maton! Your selections were most appropriate and powerfully delivered!
Poignant. Well done. Well said. The Maton brothers excel at stirring the heartstrings. 💔
Brilliant research, Ben. The futility of war! The soft stops of that organ are so sweet. The soprano sax and organ go surprisingly well together. Such a beautiful old song with a sentiment to match. The Dylan song is very hymn like in its structure and poetry. Aren’t all hymns message songs? Well done Billy. Don’t be shy. Look into the camera and imagine all us viewers appreciating what you do! A moving start to my Sunday morning.
Absolutely right, Greg! Brother Ben knows exactly how to use this direct look into the camera - straight at you . . . .
I really appreciated this episode; Florence Nightingale was a remarkable human and it is so great to see (virtually) such an important site in her history. Thank you very much for the backstory of the Crimean War as well; this American has only a fuzzy knowledge of the conflict. Please also pass along my admiration for Billy's performance; I like his voice more than Dylan's, and in turn his rendition resonated more with me than Dylan's. (Sacrilege? I think not. 🙂)
Me too. Astounding.
Spot on guys. Great job, especially Masters of War, Billy.
Another amazing video arriving just as we commemorate D Day. Sensitive playing as usual and Billy really does sound as if he’s channeling Bob Dylan.
Ben, you and Billy are such a blessing to all of us. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Greeneville, Tennessee ♥️🙏
Billy’s song was GREAT!!! I just saw the new Dylan movie yesterday and I can tell you Billy is much better than the guy who played Dylan. Maybe better than Dylan himself. Thanks for what you do Ben. Love watching your videos 💕💕
Wow. Thank you.
Ben and Billy what an absolutely poignant programme. Thank you .🥰🥰💗
You always bring me such peaceful moments. I enjoy your videos so much.
Something you said bought to mind something I heard many years ago "Piano's are "active" pipe organs are "passive". And I think that the pipe organ sings of the sole.
Thankyou so much for sharing your beautiful talent and bringing the beauty of the pipe organ into my humble little home here in Omaha Neb.
❤ this is the video that i play for friends and family to whom i want to introduce the wonders of the Maton brothers endeavours.
Yes, another video of the highest quality, technically and musically. Billy has a superb voice.. reminiscent of Nick Drake
Of course, Jesus *does Forgive ... all who repent. That's the Good News to all who are not righteous.
What great work! A lovely video. Billy is just great, and was just right. Keep up the wonderful work! PERFECT.!
Hello Ben, I have enjoyed your offerings for many months now, but I had to write upon watching this video as our paths have crossed. I am an organist currently at the Anglican Parish in Summerside PEI Canada - but I am currently back at my former Parish in Fredericton, New Brunswick to play in a concert. The Organ at St. Peter's was built by Henry Jones and was brought to Fredericton from England by our first Bishop, John Medley. I will be mentioning the Henry Jones organ you played at London Bridge in my talk about the Organ. During Bishop Medley's tenure at Christchurch Cathedral (which he built), Alexander Ewing's regiment was stationed in New Brunswick and he was an Organ Scholar at our Cathedral. So, Jerusalem the Golden is held in very high regard here, and it is usually sung at all important services. Keep up the good work - I thoroughly enjoy watching you discover these buildings and hearing your wonderful musical offerings.
Sandy Gereau Fraser
Thank you both for a brilliant video particularly your brother it was certainly a treat indeed wonderful organ beautiful location.
I had heard that Nightingale was rather oddly and strongly opinionated in spots; that's clearly a spot :-) When I was a small boy I went to sleep listening to my dad play Chopin and Beethoven on our piano, and that was soothing and healing indeed.
Billy, that was spectacular and haunting. Thank you. 🙏
this was such a gorgeous video. seeing your growth over the past few months makes me so happy and proud for you.. I love this corner of the internet
What great timing! Dylan just turned 83 on May 24th. Maybe you were taping this then?
Billy does a great Bob Dylan.
Loved the Florence Nightingale history, hymns and the church. Thanks!
Billy even looks like a young Dylan.
❤havnt heard this hymn in years being an old Methodist i loved to sing❤
Billy's contribution was superb, bravo. This week's video quite probably the best.
I’m really flattered to read this. Videos always move in unexpected directions, and I can never quite tell how things are going to turn out.
Fabulous! Ben, you never dissapoint. Great historical setting, venue and repertoire. Billy played flawlessly, too.
Lovely storytelling, evocative hymns, and a beautiful rendition by Billy. Thank you both
Wow, wow,wow. Billy boy nailed it. Ben, you have unleashed a worthy successor to Dylan.
I believe it was Florence Nightingale's meticulous record keeping & statistical analysis that won the day, rather than specific nursing skill. Her pioneering record keeping of casualty figures meant the statistics of those dying in hospitals, who should have lived could no longer be ignored. This in turn led to improvements in nursing care following treatment for wounds & a far greater survival rate. Prior to this, many of those receiving treatment simply died of infection anyway.
Thank you Ben and Billy. Another excellent video.
That’s some serious piano slander within the first couple minutes! Great content as always, I’ve played organ off and on for about 3 years and it seems so alien compared to my much greater experience at the piano
Your brother Billy is quite a musician. Thank you for sharing these historic places
Billy and Ben.... Thank you so much for the powerful and moving Masters of War by Bob Dylan... As a war veteran myself I have always been amazed by Dylan's understanding of this miserable truth..... You guys are excellent....
The King of Love My Shepherd Is was one of my favorite hymns growing up
Thank you so much for showing the map!
No problem!
I remember as a student architect going to Istanbul with the University of Cambridge in the 90s and seeing the British Crimean Graveyard over the Bosphprpus River… Nobody else seemed remotely interested in it but me…
Beyond stirring and immensely sad to see the old Christian graves there…
Florence Nightingale was clearly a wonderful lady. She must have been a devout Christian and British patriot.
You two did her proud here with this episode in memoriam.
(…And Dylan but no Tennyson? That was different… but I’m sure the older poet - as excellent as he was - would approve all the same).
God Bless
My membership coming soon (all the way from Mexico)
Wow, wow, wow! Being a Dylan fan I never guessed that I would come across a Bob Dylan song in your videos! But it fits so well! Eccellent interpretation. Giving the lyrics a fresh impact. Thank you!
A beautiful melody well done. I first became aware of Highland Cathedral when Hong Kong was handed over to china in 1997, it is reported that it was a favourite of the Last Governor of China China and it was played as he left the Governors House for the last time.
This was totally cool. Good job to both. Keep it simple , boys. Great episode.
Thank you for your vlogs. You're about the closest thing to divinity I know 😂
Beautiful sounding organ!
Wow! You both have amazing talent.
I love your combined efforts and the beautiful churches and chapels that you visit and bring back to life 🥳🎹🎸👏
Such an interesting episode highlighting Florence Nightingale. What sadness that someone would pinch the shrapnel cross. Beautiful hymn selection, thank you, Ben. Lovely to see two musical brothers working together 🎶
Thanks!
Wow indeed! Ben, this was without doubt the best of your excellent videos. Billy's rendition of Bob Dylan's song was so good I've had to play it three times already. That organ is absolutely stunning and quite obviously been kept up splendidly!
I'm now seventy-five years young and living on a very tiny pension in the deep woods of Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. About the only thing I can do now is "pay attention," otherwise I'd happily chip in to support your wonderful efforts. Unfortunately, when I moved here, I had to leave my Conn Artiste organ behind.
🧐🎹 + 🎷