Ben started with an apology, but as this week's episode progressed, the hand of a master of a craft began to make itself obvious. He has an intuitive approach to telling a story, and most intriguingly, he draws his audience into the narrative. His obvious love for the English countryside is almost an aphrodisiac to enhance the sights of ancient buildings and sweeping views of meadows, fields, and distant horizons. His skills and talent deserve to be amply rewarded.
Dear Ben thank you again for for another wonderful video the scenery and churches are so lovely in your part of the green and pleasant land as always I do look forward to forward to Sundays take care good less you 🙏👵🏻
Well, Ben. RUclips may be tough, but you've proven that you're tougher! In spite of roaring combines, braying donkeys, stinging nettles and high winds, you managed to produce a fantastic film and supply a lovely Mendelssohn piece on that excellent organ. And you were also able to perfectly weave your own "twinkling" composition and music from the harmonium into the background. I can't deny the fact that I joined in with you in your frustration that you were just SO close to touring your third church -- but not quite able to fit it in! On the other hand, our story now turns into a real "cliff hanger," with your fans having to wait until next week to get the rest of the story. I think you can count on a good turnout for episode 2 next week. In the meantime, please put your feet up, have a hearty meal, re-hydrate, and commit to sleeping at least 12 hours tonight! And we'll all say a prayer of thanks to the Great Redeemer for guiding you safely home.
Dear Ben your meandering to the churches through the green and pleasant lands is so comforting in the time of turbulence in England. The music is so peaceful. Keep well this week. God bless❤
@lizwilliams14 no I mean as in the drop down notification list on my phone, there is also a little notification bell on RUclips that notifies you when the people you have subscribed to uploaded. It's just on the top right as you open youtube!
@@Hoover22yes. I have that bell checked. I don’t get any drop down on my iPad. Never noticed one on my phone either. I just happened to check RUclips before I went out side and he had posted this 6 seconds ago! Oh well! Thanks for the help.
Greetings 😊 from America. Ben,my wife and I are so pleased to have you here in our living room each week. We enjoy the hour we spend with you. It brings joy just to hear your enthusiasm and the excitement in your voice. The knowledge that you have to share with us. The professionalism you display for a person of your age we, all your viewers are taken aback. Thank You, and many enjoy sharing their donations with you.
"... maybe you can put it into words better than I can." No, I don't think anyone can. I think you expressed your day's journey beautifully. The Mendelssohn Prelude was gorgeous. Thank you for all that you endure to take us on these journeys with you. Each of your videos is a bright light in my week.
I went to church at a neoclassical gothic cathedral built in the 1860s. It was a traditional Latin mass and the music was gregorian chants. The organ was above the seating and the echoing was absolutely amazing. Nothing better than an old church.
This year me and my son spent the Solstice at Knowlton. Having been stuck in traffic for three hours trying to get to Stonehenge from Salisbury, we gave up. It was magical and possibly the best sunrise I have ever seen actually on the Solstice.
Ben from the moment any of your videos start you have me in the palm of your hand. There are a few people in our world who’s passion, love and knowledge of their subject make you thirst for more and you are one of them. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
Your ambition is admirable. Who else would try to fit three village churches in one day, on foot, parking in the next village -- it is no small wonder you were exhausted when you arrived at Chalbury. Then you had to make the return walk, heavy rucksack and all. The Witchhampton church is a wonderfully bright space, and the room has the right amount of life (although how you can hear the organ from the console is a mystery). No one plays Mendelssohn anymore. It is unfortunate because his writing is quite inventive -- the six sonatas are wonderful works. I will say that Cwm Rhondda is one of my favourite tunes, there is so much you can do with it. I love the pedal line, it is reminiscent of one of the best pedal lines ever written -- I am, of course, speaking of Sine Nomine -- probably my favourite hymn tune. Even facing this video, you are calm. You accept that there was not enough time to do what you had planned, and that is just fine. I will say it again, your videos are well composed and allow my to live, vicariously, in England for just a bit of time on Sunday afternoons. Pax vobiscum.
I remember before before you had 1k subscribers. Now you're at 32k. You have come great lengths and no matter how well you think the video is produced we will all still listen and enjoy. keep it up! :):):)
I LOVED when the video cut to the stops that were pulled out. That must’ve been annoying to record after the performance, but the little details are what sets you apart! Being able to put a word to the sounds that we’re hearing is very helpful
Ben, Ben. You don’t understand how peaceful your videos are. I have been making Oboe Reeds all day for my customers and to see the great peace that transcends all the places that you go is just so uplifting. Do not underestimate what you do! Thanks so much. You are a treasure!
No apology needed at the beginning, Ben. We love all your programmes and the beautiful walks you take us on can almost feel like we walk there, too (but they do not tire us sitting comfortably at home 😊). Sundays would never be the same without the evening dose of music, poetry, story and the idyllic scenery all combined by one artistic mind and talent. I was so engrossed watching tonight that I almost forgot my cake in the oven...
Ben, you're doing an amazing job with these productions. I'm from the east coast of the United States. Your work will be the only chance I get to see the country sides of where my genealogies started, Thank you.
I’m an American. And a Christian. I love England and I love your channel. I most of all love the hymns you play so adeptly and beautifully. Do you realize what a wealth of biblical truths are stored up in these old hymns? They tell of the love of God in our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you for all you do in your videos, may the Lord bless you in your work, and may He show Himself more clearly to you as you continue in it.
Ben, I enjoyed listening to your music and your unique story-telling style! I wish so much that I could contribute financially to your mission, but my monthly pitiful, paltry, pittance is barely enough to pay my monthly rent, groceries, and minor expenses. At seventy-six, my overall health is such that I'm unable to perform any sort of work. Sadly, I can't even play the organ any longer because of my crippled right hand. May God continue to Bless you and keep you safe!
Ben, absolutely no need to apologise. That was an excellent video. Don't be too hard on yourself. I really enjoyed it and the Mendelssohn was a real treat not to mention the hymn. Thanks very much 😊
Thank you for the way you make sense of, gather insights and contextualise the interaction between essentially your story and the wider narrative of the British journey. What characterises or marks you out is your generous-hearted spirit of appreciation. Masterful - from Cape Town, South Africa.
Hi Ben. I'm 73 years old and was an organist and choir master for over 40 years in a small church here in Cape Town. I retired from my church duties 5 years ago. Watching your videos enspired me to once again offer my services in beautifying the house of God. I played in service this morning (Sunday) for the first time in 5 years. Thank you for what you do. I don't think you really know the joy it brings. God bless you.
Although now thousands of miles away from your visits to village churches mostly in South Wiltshire, it brings back so many memories. Growing up in the Swindon area of North Wiltshire, and as a server at Mass from a very early age, ment that my Grandparents and I visited hundreds of churches from Pewsey in mid Wiltshire North into most of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire to the North (1955-1990). I have never and will never forget those journeys, the beauty of those experiences, their incredible and unique history, a total peace, and the overpowering presence of God within each individual church we visited. I fervently hope that others will also join me to support your half hour of bliss each week. Thank you.
Thank you Ben for your wonderful videos. I am a pipe organ builder here in Tennessee(USA) and cannot wait to see your next videos. You share places that I would never get to see in the country that my family originally came from. Please know that your work is very much appreciated.
This day does suggest why your camper trailer is going to be so useful. If you could have stayed over you might have been able to do justice to the third church. I will keep liking and commenting each week as my small contribution from 12292 km away south.
watching these soul-reaching videos has shown me that at 8 decades old my life has been narrowed to the pathways of Ben. Organs possess a personality of resonance and effect like no other instrument. These ancient rock and wood institutes must awaken with every sound of every note played within their space. Notes that have been familiar for eons...once again causing the walls to shiver and absorb the sounds once again. They say every sound made on earth rises into the nebulous and can be heard ethereally, eternally. One day the stone and wood will release all they have absorbed and the sound will be felt by every soul that exists in all time. Is there a better way to spend these days watching and listening to Ben? You can't convince me.
It's my personal opinion, Ben, that you don't need to make your journeys more ambitious. It's delightful to spend Sunday afternoon virtually meandering through "England's green and pleasant land". A slower pace is lovely so we can drink in all the beautiful views, listen to the history and enjoy your music. Cheers from Canada.
£10.61 donated wonderful videos thank you so much. I wondered how you would have coped at the wedding I played for last Saturday. Single manual hand pumped no electricity in church. No time to check out stops. Pumper arrived 10 mins before kick off! Not too bad prior to bride arriving. I pulled out all stops for Bridal March but it was so loud due to a peculiar stop called dia -octon. Poor pumper aged 82 nearly expired😂 Diaocton, 16ft Bourdon, open diapaison 8ft, stop diapaison 8ft, clarabella 8ft, dulciana 8ft, principal 4ft.
AHHHH!!! The things we do for good video!!! Moral of the story for this triad-of-the-day? What starts in life sometimes must finish in sorrow, only to to be hewn and refined to glory elsewhere after much struggle to rise above!!!
Ben, so much to take in! We will be watching/experiencing your journeys for the unforeseeable future and no one can guess the value of your work! Thank you.
Ben, this was one of your most delightful ever episodes! Thoroughly enjoyed the trek with you over (probably) centuries-old footpaths from one village to another. Tom Armstrong's comment really nailed it.
I thought I had a great comment and appreciation for this excellent journey you've taken us on. Only to find everyone said it already. I rejoin the chorus of applause! 🤗
Based on the title of this video offering, I instantly became prepared & ready to "rail' against any possible RUclips censorship for "unimaginable" creator violations which are now so regularly in force against those same creators I so willingly support & cherish. Watching further did relieve my fear, but allowed me to comprehend your thorough & complete poetic & romantic side of your interests & personality in what you present to your viewers. I have said so many times before on just how much I appreciate & enjoy what you give to us. You are so extremely sensitive & "hopelessly" romantic with regards to the "stories' you share; and we do "love" you for that!!!! But as an "outsider" & as an American, I appreciate your efforts which define MY IMAGINE of "England's green & pleasant land" (I was well aware of Emerson, Lake & Palmer way before I learned Anglican/Episcopal hymns!) Again, thank you for sharing your wonderful video offerings! This is Peter M; out!
Another blessed trip through story and time...thank you as always. England is such a beautiful country. It is heartbreaking to hear what is happening to that lovely place. My prayers are for her and for all those who live there. Thank you for letting me glimpse the quiet peacefulness of those quaint villages and historic churches and to hear the time honored glory of those wonderful songs. Blessings Ben for what you do through this channel. I am not able to support you financially but will try and point people in the direction of this great channel. Cheers my friend......cheers!!
Thank you for your thoughts. It is an unsettling time here in the UK, but with Ben's wonderfully sympathetic videos on our quintessential English churches and their history, all is not lost. I believe these troubling times will bring people back to what makes who we are, and our history and these beautiful churches, so evocative of England, will prevail.
My family left London for Jamestown in 1610, as, being founding members of the _Virginia Company of London,_ travelling to that new colony was the only way they had of checking on their investment here, in what they had (perhaps accidentally) started as _British North America._ Yet, (having not yet visited Britain, myself) it's hard to explain the sense of homesickness I get, in the close paths and wide-spreading vistas you present in these views of the "And did those feet, in ancient times..." English countryside.
Ye, You tube may be tough. As is many of life's challenges. I was very, very fortunate to read two books early in my life.1.The power of positive thinking - Norman Vincent Peal.2.The power of the subconscious mind -Joseph Murray. Lately motivational quotes on the internet such as:::It's not just about being better. It's about being different. You need to give people a reason to choose your business -Tom Abbott-- The last one is a great example of what Ben Maton is doing.....guess that`s why his subscribers is growing to the sky...... Keep on pushing Ben, We adore and admire you and your work....
Ben, thanks so much for another great video....lots of gorgeous scenery & commentary. The organ at Witchampton is really nice....I imagine it's wonderful to play also. I also love churches with clear windows in small towns & villages where you can look out on the trees & landscape that God created as you worship Him!
Oh dear ! The union flag in Witchampton is flying upside down! This is a "secret" sign of being in distress. The correct way up is :"wide white diagonal uppermost at the flag pole". (Or, if no flagpole, on the left.)
Hello Ben, as you mentioned the clear glass windows it reminded me of the feature of old window glass being "wavy". Before the industrial era window glass was mouth-blown. When restoration is done properly this type of glass should be used. It may be too expensive for small churches, but maybe there is a modern technique that can produce a similar look. A view through an old window glass is even more beautiful than the plain beautiful view through a modern glass. Thank you for taking us to these trips.
Once again an adorable piece of British delight. One also enjoys your picturesque romps through the historic and social landscape of the countryside; quite delicious May I be one of those horrid pendants though, with a small smile If the earlier conurbation was indeed blessed with this Norman church, then it decidedly was a 'Village' and not a 'Hamlet'. A hamlet by archetypical and structural definition is a collection of dwellings without communal constructs like a church or pub or even a 'village green'. So the local community around and associated with that glorious ruined church was a village A hamlet is not completely defined by size, however, possessing such a magnificent church gives the community the honour to be elevated to village status. I would have been proud to have lived in that village a thousand years ago. Isn't it sad that lives of these small communities and the people who walked that henge on their way to worship is lost to us forever Your cameos do give them such dignity and bring back the realisation that these places were made by the toil and love and respect of ordinary English folk in an age before any mass manufacture. Yet they could construct this beautiful building. Thank you for bringing back their memories and achievements through RUclips, and your channel. As long as that church relic remains, the villagers are still real in memory, which is nice. That's my smile, and a little flag-waving for villagers, rather than 'mere' dwellers in a clustered hamlet 😮... One is, as always, in gratitude for your vlogs. ML
I love your channel! After a busy Sunday playing the organ at my church in Sheffield, I so look forward to coming home and watching your weekly uploads. You inspire me so much and remind me how wonderful and special it is to play a church organ! And thank you for introducing me to Bachs Piece d’orgue the other week! 😊 🎹 🎹 ⛪️ 👼
Thank you for explaining why you walk to the churches. It make so much more sense now. I’ve been noticing your Stetson hat. When you get to the US next time save time for DeLand, Florida. It’s home to Stetson University and Stetson Mansion (“the house that hats built”).
Excellent video, such a beautiful area to dream about Ben, the tour of the local churches on this occasion has been an occasion for a beautiful excursion through the countryside with beautiful music. Greetings and congratulations on your brilliant creation, dear Ben. 😊
Certainly no apologies needed. All your video, with all their components - planned or unplanned - are always a delight and a welcome respite from the world outside your villages. As an American whose feet are in the US and whose heart is in the UK, (I used to live and attend nursing school in Derby), your videos are a balm. Please keep filming!
Thank you for the time and effort required to approach these wonderful buildings by public footpath. It really sets the stage and adds to the sense of place and a better understanding of the importance of churches in traditional village life. I'm of partial Welsh descent and know the last hymn you played as Cwm Rhondda. Aside from the version you shared with us today, my favorite RUclips performance of the piece has an unlikely provenance.... the fifes and drums of the combined bands of the Brigade of Guards.
Good Lord, I thought you’d been in a car accident! So glad to hear that’s not the case. Amazing that the bramble paths aren’t more covered over. Thanks for taking us on the journey of how you make your journeys. Hope Billy is well and that you’re satisfied with your new caravan. Best wishes from the San Francisco Bay Area!
@@lizwilliams14 Yeah, I guess the parent or grandparent in me was reacting to Ben’s headline that “RUclips is TOUGH.” Thought something calamitous had happened.
If my Dad was alive, he would have loved your channel for he was also a church organist. He was also the Dean of the American Guild of Organists. He composed music, designed and even built a pipe organ. So many hymns you have played over the months bring so many warm memories as a choir boy under my Dad’s direction. Thank you! Couldn’t find the PayPal link. Have you thought of setting up a “Buy me a coffee “ link? Easy way to generate revenue. My best to you!
Thank you for this week’s episode. My favourite part of this video is the journeying and reflections on how people traversed to these churches. It made me think again about how intimately people knew the landscape and to consider the great distances they walked everyday, with Sunday’s walk to church being the most important of all. The change in the weather on the day of filming is a true representation of the English weather and how it is, and always was, such an important part of the journey. It is an incredible thing to expose oneself to all weather conditions, to experience it fully, and to reflect on other’s experiences through this. You make filming look very natural in the way that you are able to maintain composure and command with so much going on around you, and with so much to think about. I think the last two videos have given an important insight into how much work goes into creating these videos and how tricky it can sometimes be to access these historic places. I am happy that there is a new and exciting video in the works, as a result of this one…journeying onwards.
I love England too. I think of all my ancestors here in the American South who had English surnames and consider there journey to a far away English colony. Must have been very difficult for them. Perhaps some of them stepped foot in some of those old churches you visit. I heard an English lady say that she was surprised to find that apon visiting America it was in the South that she found more of a connection to England. The small town that I am from in N. Carolina has a huge Georgian manor house stood right in the middle of town, on a 14 acre park, built by King George for his royal governor in the 1750s. Of course we later told him to get lost. I don't think he liked that very much. Although I am proud of my ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary war and proud to be an American, my love for England is still there. It is a blood connection I believe and even a big family fight cannot end that connection. I think a lot of Americans feel this way. Love that piece you played on that wonderful organs and what a beautiful ruin that first church you visited was. I sure would love to hear you recite that most famous poem, " this plot, this realm, this emerald set in silver sea. This England." Lesley Howard recites it beautifully in that old movie The Scarlet Pimpernel.
@carlaanderson6205 ---> I also have about 90% English blood in my veins. You probably do know this, but ---- not every person in the colonies was a rebel. Quite the contrary. About 1/3 were rebels, 1/3 were loyalists/Royalist (Amen!) and about a 1/3 were "fence-sitters" (seeing which way the wind would blow.) North Carolina was home to many Loyalists, and they served in pro-British militias and wore green and white uniforms, or outright joined British Army units (Redcoats). Ben Franklin's son was the Royal Governor of New Jersey and completely against his father's rebel nonsense. P.S. - I do not know why the Y.T. hamster put a line through my words. I did not type anything foul or obscene.
One church per video is wonderful, two is bonus and three… well that’s beyond ambitious for a day’s outing. Thanks as always for a wonderful Sunday evening escape Ben, our wish is you keep up the good work and not burn out by ever increasing ambition in your weekly films
Ben you are a beautiful magician! . Do not stop recording . Go in peace ,go in joy ,go in love , and thank you for taking us with you every time, I am so grateful . ❤
We had a Connacher organ in our Victorian Church, but unfortunately, when it was uncecessarily demolished, the organ was taken out.and thrown in the town dump. Hurts to this day.
Sad but it's not hard to see why. Such organs cost a lot of money to install and to maintain. The small church I attend couldn't afford to install one even if we were offered. We use a Yamaha keyboard as an organ.
![Eminem - Fuel (Shady Edition) feat. Westside Boogie & GRIP [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/k1OquBida9s/mqdefault.jpg)
Ben started with an apology, but as this week's episode progressed, the hand of a master of a craft began to make itself obvious. He has an intuitive approach to telling a story, and most intriguingly, he draws his audience into the narrative. His obvious love for the English countryside is almost an aphrodisiac to enhance the sights of ancient buildings and sweeping views of meadows, fields, and distant horizons. His skills and talent deserve to be amply rewarded.
Dear Ben thank you again for for another wonderful video the scenery and churches are so lovely in your part of the green and pleasant land as always I do look forward to forward to Sundays take care good less you 🙏👵🏻
@@joantennant5579God bless you
Excellent comment 👍
Very kind, thanks
Absolutely agree. Well said Sir.
Well, Ben. RUclips may be tough, but you've proven that you're tougher!
In spite of roaring combines, braying donkeys, stinging nettles and high winds, you managed to produce a fantastic film and supply a lovely Mendelssohn piece on that excellent organ. And you were also able to perfectly weave your own "twinkling" composition and music from the harmonium into the background.
I can't deny the fact that I joined in with you in your frustration that you were just SO close to touring your third church -- but not quite able to fit it in! On the other hand, our story now turns into a real "cliff hanger," with your fans having to wait until next week to get the rest of the story. I think you can count on a good turnout for episode 2 next week.
In the meantime, please put your feet up, have a hearty meal, re-hydrate, and commit to sleeping at least 12 hours tonight! And we'll all say a prayer of thanks to the Great Redeemer for guiding you safely home.
Love and Blessings Ben.Till next time🤗💕
A cheese and pickle sandwich reward appears in order.
@@willmears1111 Indeed! At the very least. Along with plenty of orange juice (with or without vodka) to restore those electrolytes.
Dear Ben your meandering to the churches through the green and pleasant lands is so comforting in the time of turbulence in England. The music is so peaceful. Keep well this week. God bless❤
... in the time of turbulence in the world!
God bless you ❤
What makes a good sunday night? When Ben Maton's upload appears on my notification list!!
Hey! You’re awesome!
Absolutely not, you make the videos which make my night
I haven’t figured out how to do that. Where do you get the list? I mean is it emailed to you or ….. thanks
@lizwilliams14 no I mean as in the drop down notification list on my phone, there is also a little notification bell on RUclips that notifies you when the people you have subscribed to uploaded. It's just on the top right as you open youtube!
@@Hoover22yes. I have that bell checked. I don’t get any drop down on my iPad. Never noticed one on my phone either. I just happened to check RUclips before I went out side and he had posted this 6 seconds ago! Oh well! Thanks for the help.
Footpaths, blackberries, lovely churches. What more could one require from life
Nothing on RUclips compares to you....
No matter what you show on YT, it is always a pleasure and very uplifting. Regards from the USA! 🎹🎹🎹🎼🎼🎼👍👍👍
Very beautiful villages. Thank you so much.
Here on the bald prairie of Western Canada it is a joy to see the beauty of England, and to hear the organ played so well.
Greetings 😊 from America. Ben,my wife and I are so pleased to have you here in our living room each week. We enjoy the hour we spend with you. It brings joy just to hear your enthusiasm and the excitement in your voice. The knowledge that you have to share with us. The professionalism you display for a person of your age we, all your viewers are taken aback. Thank You, and many enjoy sharing their donations with you.
My pleasure. Thank you both :)
"... maybe you can put it into words better than I can." No, I don't think anyone can. I think you expressed your day's journey beautifully. The Mendelssohn Prelude was gorgeous. Thank you for all that you endure to take us on these journeys with you. Each of your videos is a bright light in my week.
I would like to hear you to play that Mendelssohn piece at St.Martins. This organ doesn’t do it justice having obviously no upperwork or reeds.
I went to church at a neoclassical gothic cathedral built in the 1860s. It was a traditional Latin mass and the music was gregorian chants. The organ was above the seating and the echoing was absolutely amazing. Nothing better than an old church.
This year me and my son spent the Solstice at Knowlton. Having been stuck in traffic for three hours trying to get to Stonehenge from Salisbury, we gave up.
It was magical and possibly the best sunrise I have ever seen actually on the Solstice.
.............and one of my favourite hymns to finish !! Excellent
Ben from the moment any of your videos start you have me in the palm of your hand.
There are a few people in our world who’s passion, love and knowledge of their subject make you thirst for more and you are one of them.
Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
Your ambition is admirable. Who else would try to fit three village churches in one day, on foot, parking in the next village -- it is no small wonder you were exhausted when you arrived at Chalbury. Then you had to make the return walk, heavy rucksack and all.
The Witchhampton church is a wonderfully bright space, and the room has the right amount of life (although how you can hear the organ from the console is a mystery). No one plays Mendelssohn anymore. It is unfortunate because his writing is quite inventive -- the six sonatas are wonderful works. I will say that Cwm Rhondda is one of my favourite tunes, there is so much you can do with it. I love the pedal line, it is reminiscent of one of the best pedal lines ever written -- I am, of course, speaking of Sine Nomine -- probably my favourite hymn tune.
Even facing this video, you are calm. You accept that there was not enough time to do what you had planned, and that is just fine. I will say it again, your videos are well composed and allow my to live, vicariously, in England for just a bit of time on Sunday afternoons. Pax vobiscum.
That’s a lovely comment to receive. Simply delighted and wishing you a great week
Thank you so much for these interesting jaunts through English countryside by
a most charming host.
I remember before before you had 1k subscribers. Now you're at 32k. You have come great lengths and no matter how well you think the video is produced we will all still listen and enjoy. keep it up! :):):)
Beautiful music, beautiful scenery. Great job.
Another excellent video. Thank you 😊
Thank you for uploading this.
Keep on doing what you do. It does not matter witch way you do it,it is still worth the effort,and enjoyable
Please give Ben a like as it help him get more exposure across the world The bramble and stinging nettles all a long your way
I LOVED when the video cut to the stops that were pulled out. That must’ve been annoying to record after the performance, but the little details are what sets you apart! Being able to put a word to the sounds that we’re hearing is very helpful
I absolutely love the music and the silences you put with the Knowlton church.
Ben, Ben. You don’t understand how peaceful your videos are. I have been making Oboe Reeds all day for my customers and to see the great peace that transcends all the places that you go is just so uplifting. Do not underestimate what you do! Thanks so much. You are a treasure!
Many thanks from an old Anglican Romantic to a younger voyager. Greetings from the Romantic Hudson Valley!
No apology needed at the beginning, Ben. We love all your programmes and the beautiful walks you take us on can almost feel like we walk there, too (but they do not tire us sitting comfortably at home 😊). Sundays would never be the same without the evening dose of music, poetry, story and the idyllic scenery all combined by one artistic mind and talent. I was so engrossed watching tonight that I almost forgot my cake in the oven...
I really really really love your channel, Ben. There's nothing lovelier than all these quaint villages and their churches. You are amazing
Wonderful Ben. Thank you so much.
Ben, you're doing an amazing job with these productions. I'm from the east coast of the United States. Your work will be the only chance I get to see the country sides of where my genealogies started, Thank you.
Ein großes Glück, ich freue mich, dass es Sie gibt.
Thank you for the visit on a Sunday afternoon. Enjoyed and donated.
Thanks!
Thank you!
I’m an American. And a Christian. I love England and I love your channel. I most of all love the hymns you play so adeptly and beautifully. Do you realize what a wealth of biblical truths are stored up in these old hymns? They tell of the love of God in our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you for all you do in your videos, may the Lord bless you in your work, and may He show Himself more clearly to you as you continue in it.
Ben, I enjoyed listening to your music and your unique story-telling style! I wish so much that I could contribute financially to your mission, but my monthly pitiful, paltry, pittance is barely enough to pay my monthly rent, groceries, and minor expenses. At seventy-six, my overall health is such that I'm unable to perform any sort of work. Sadly, I can't even play the organ any longer because of my crippled right hand.
May God continue to Bless you and keep you safe!
You do your part by liking and commenting as it helps with the YT algorithm. 💕
Ben, absolutely no need to apologise. That was an excellent video. Don't be too hard on yourself. I really enjoyed it and the Mendelssohn was a real treat not to mention the hymn. Thanks very much 😊
Thank you for the way you make sense of, gather insights and contextualise the interaction between essentially your story and the wider narrative of the British journey. What characterises or marks you out is your generous-hearted spirit of appreciation. Masterful - from Cape Town, South Africa.
Hi Ben. I'm 73 years old and was an organist and choir master for over 40 years in a small church here in Cape Town.
I retired from my church duties 5 years ago.
Watching your videos enspired me to once again offer my services in beautifying the house of God. I played in service this morning (Sunday) for the first time in 5 years.
Thank you for what you do. I don't think you really know the joy it brings. God bless you.
Although now thousands of miles away from your visits to village churches mostly in South Wiltshire, it brings back so many memories. Growing up in the Swindon area of North Wiltshire, and as a server at Mass from a very early age, ment that my Grandparents and I visited hundreds of churches from Pewsey in mid Wiltshire North into most of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire to the North (1955-1990). I have never and will never forget those journeys, the beauty of those experiences, their incredible and unique history, a total peace, and the overpowering presence of God within each individual church we visited. I fervently hope that others will also join me to support your half hour of bliss each week. Thank you.
I'm a fan of your videos and I think you're a nice person. Greetings from Italy. Hi, Stefano.
Love these videos! Thank you!❤
Thank you so much for your stories and music!
The ancient churches are magnificent, but not nearly as mesmerizing as watching you play an organ prelude in a minor key. 🙏
Congratulations on reaching that 32K followers mark, Ben!
Thank you Ben for your wonderful videos. I am a pipe organ builder here in Tennessee(USA) and cannot wait to see your next videos. You share places that I would never get to see in the country that my family originally came from. Please know that your work is very much appreciated.
This day does suggest why your camper trailer is going to be so useful. If you could have stayed over you might have been able to do justice to the third church. I will keep liking and commenting each week as my small contribution from 12292 km away south.
Absolutely
What a lovely video👏🏻👏🏻 Thank you so much Ben for playing “Guide me oh Thou Great Redeemer. I love this hymn. It brought tears to my eyes.
Thank you for giving us songs and praises s well as an entertaining story.
Thanks for the music, sky vistas, the history, and your art.
Ben, a wonderful episode… god bless
Thanks
Dear Ben,
THANK YOU.
Regards
D+ W fm SA
You would have gotten along well with JRR Tolkien. He felt the same way about cars in the English countryside.
watching these soul-reaching videos has shown me that at 8 decades old my life has been narrowed to the pathways of Ben.
Organs possess a personality of resonance and effect like no other instrument. These ancient rock and wood institutes must awaken with every sound of every note played within their space. Notes that have been familiar for eons...once again causing the walls to shiver and absorb the sounds once again. They say every sound made on earth rises into the nebulous and can be heard ethereally, eternally. One day the stone and wood will release all they have absorbed and the sound will be felt by every soul that exists in all time.
Is there a better way to spend these days watching and listening to Ben? You can't convince me.
Thank you for that last hymn, "Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer!" That is a beautiful work.
That hymn ideally needs a larger organ for maximum tonal impact.
Soothing.
Ben, it’s a pleasure just coming along on your journey. You’re a gifted storyteller.
It's my personal opinion, Ben, that you don't need to make your journeys more ambitious. It's delightful to spend Sunday afternoon virtually meandering through "England's green and pleasant land". A slower pace is lovely so we can drink in all the beautiful views, listen to the history and enjoy your music. Cheers from Canada.
Thank you for you video's and the time you invest to make them. Keep up the good work Ben.
Absolutely loved this video!! The story is superb told! Brilliant!! Well done!! Thank you very much indeed!!
Loved the Mendelssohn! I learned that prelude about 28 years ago. You’ve inspired me to play it again.
£10.61 donated wonderful videos thank you so much. I wondered how you would have coped at the wedding I played for last Saturday. Single manual hand pumped no electricity in church. No time to check out stops. Pumper arrived 10 mins before kick off!
Not too bad prior to bride arriving. I pulled out all stops for Bridal
March but it was so loud due to a peculiar stop called dia -octon. Poor pumper aged 82 nearly expired😂
Diaocton, 16ft Bourdon, open diapaison 8ft, stop diapaison 8ft, clarabella 8ft, dulciana 8ft, principal 4ft.
Thank you! We’ve seen it all us organists!…
What a lovely man you are, full of respect for churches, it brought a tear to my eye.
The church and village of Witchhampton are stunning. From those who will never get to see them in person, thank you for a delightful tour.
AHHHH!!! The things we do for good video!!! Moral of the story for this triad-of-the-day? What starts in life sometimes must finish in sorrow, only to to be hewn and refined to glory elsewhere after much struggle to rise above!!!
Ben, so much to take in! We will be watching/experiencing your journeys for the unforeseeable future and no one can guess the value of your work! Thank you.
Ben, this was one of your most delightful ever episodes! Thoroughly enjoyed the trek with you over (probably) centuries-old footpaths from one village to another. Tom Armstrong's comment really nailed it.
I thought I had a great comment and appreciation for this excellent journey you've taken us on. Only to find everyone said it already. I rejoin the chorus of applause! 🤗
Based on the title of this video offering, I instantly became prepared & ready to "rail' against any possible RUclips censorship for "unimaginable" creator violations which are now so regularly in force against those same creators I so willingly support & cherish. Watching further did relieve my fear, but allowed me to comprehend your thorough & complete poetic & romantic side of your interests & personality in what you present to your viewers. I have said so many times before on just how much I appreciate & enjoy what you give to us. You are so extremely sensitive & "hopelessly" romantic with regards to the "stories' you share; and we do "love" you for that!!!! But as an "outsider" & as an American, I appreciate your efforts which define MY IMAGINE of "England's green & pleasant land" (I was well aware of Emerson, Lake & Palmer way before I learned Anglican/Episcopal hymns!) Again, thank you for sharing your wonderful video offerings! This is Peter M; out!
Another blessed trip through story and time...thank you as always. England is such a beautiful country. It is heartbreaking to hear what is happening to that lovely place. My prayers are for her and for all those who live there. Thank you for letting me glimpse the quiet peacefulness of those quaint villages and historic churches and to hear the time honored glory of those wonderful songs. Blessings Ben for what you do through this channel. I am not able to support you financially but will try and point people in the direction of this great channel. Cheers my friend......cheers!!
Thank you for your thoughts. It is an unsettling time here in the UK, but with Ben's wonderfully sympathetic videos on our quintessential English churches and their history, all is not lost. I believe these troubling times will bring people back to what makes who we are, and our history and these beautiful churches, so evocative of England, will prevail.
@@SS-zz4pi well said
Love your videos.
My family left London for Jamestown in 1610, as, being founding members of the _Virginia Company of London,_ travelling to that new colony was the only way they had of checking on their investment here, in what they had (perhaps accidentally) started as _British North America._ Yet, (having not yet visited Britain, myself) it's hard to explain the sense of homesickness I get, in the close paths and wide-spreading vistas you present in these views of the "And did those feet, in ancient times..." English countryside.
Thank you for the opportunity to travel and experience the environment. And, for the music … one of the best moments of my day.
Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to excellence! It’s the highlight of each week to see where you take us!
Rather good journey again, high quality indeed. Can't wait to see these places of worship and hear the hymns and those magnificent organ works again.
Ye, You tube may be tough. As is many of life's challenges. I was very, very fortunate to read two books early in my life.1.The power of positive thinking - Norman Vincent Peal.2.The power of the subconscious mind -Joseph Murray. Lately motivational quotes on the internet such as:::It's not just about being better. It's about being different. You need to give people a reason to choose your business -Tom Abbott-- The last one is a great example of what Ben Maton is doing.....guess that`s why his subscribers is growing to the sky......
Keep on pushing Ben, We adore and admire you and your work....
Ben, thanks so much for another great video....lots of gorgeous scenery & commentary. The organ at Witchampton is really nice....I imagine it's wonderful to play also. I also love churches with clear windows in small towns & villages where you can look out on the trees & landscape that God created as you worship Him!
Oh dear ! The union flag in Witchampton is flying upside down! This is a "secret" sign of being in distress.
The correct way up is :"wide white diagonal uppermost at the flag pole". (Or, if no flagpole, on the left.)
Hello Ben, as you mentioned the clear glass windows it reminded me of the feature of old window glass being "wavy". Before the industrial era window glass was mouth-blown. When restoration is done properly this type of glass should be used. It may be too expensive for small churches, but maybe there is a modern technique that can produce a similar look. A view through an old window glass is even more beautiful than the plain beautiful view through a modern glass. Thank you for taking us to these trips.
Once again an adorable piece of British delight.
One also enjoys your picturesque romps through the historic and social landscape of the countryside; quite delicious
May I be one of those horrid pendants though, with a small smile
If the earlier conurbation was indeed blessed with this Norman church, then it decidedly was a 'Village' and not a 'Hamlet'.
A hamlet by archetypical and structural definition is a collection of dwellings without communal constructs like a church or pub or even a 'village green'.
So the local community around and associated with that glorious ruined church was a village
A hamlet is not completely defined by size, however, possessing such a magnificent church gives the community the honour to be elevated to village status.
I would have been proud to have lived in that village a thousand years ago. Isn't it sad that lives of these small communities and the people who walked that henge on their way to worship is lost to us forever
Your cameos do give them such dignity and bring back the realisation that these places were made by the toil and love and respect of ordinary English folk in an age before any mass manufacture. Yet they could construct this beautiful building.
Thank you for bringing back their memories and achievements through RUclips, and your channel.
As long as that church relic remains, the villagers are still real in memory, which is nice.
That's my smile, and a little flag-waving for villagers, rather than 'mere' dwellers in a clustered hamlet 😮...
One is, as always, in gratitude for your vlogs.
ML
No need for apology. I loved this video, even the sadness of a derelict building. The memory of all those who worshipped there seems to linger.
I love your channel! After a busy Sunday playing the organ at my church in Sheffield, I so look forward to coming home and watching your weekly uploads. You inspire me so much and remind me how wonderful and special it is to play a church organ! And thank you for introducing me to Bachs Piece d’orgue the other week!
😊 🎹 🎹 ⛪️ 👼
Thank you for explaining why you walk to the churches. It make so much more sense now.
I’ve been noticing your Stetson hat. When you get to the US next time save time for DeLand, Florida. It’s home to Stetson University and Stetson Mansion (“the house that hats built”).
Excellent video, such a beautiful area to dream about Ben, the tour of the local churches on this occasion has been an occasion for a beautiful excursion through the countryside with beautiful music. Greetings and congratulations on your brilliant creation, dear Ben. 😊
All happens for a reason .You were obviously meant to return .I'm not alone in looking forward .Many thanks It worked out perfectly . Greetings .
Certainly no apologies needed. All your video, with all their components - planned or unplanned - are always a delight and a welcome respite from the world outside your villages. As an American whose feet are in the US and whose heart is in the UK, (I used to live and attend nursing school in Derby), your videos are a balm. Please keep filming!
Thank you for the time and effort required to approach these wonderful buildings by public footpath. It really sets the stage and adds to the sense of place and a better understanding of the importance of churches in traditional village life.
I'm of partial Welsh descent and know the last hymn you played as Cwm Rhondda. Aside from the version you shared with us today, my favorite RUclips performance of the piece has an unlikely provenance....
the fifes and drums of the combined bands of the Brigade of Guards.
Good Lord, I thought you’d been in a car accident! So glad to hear that’s not the case. Amazing that the bramble paths aren’t more covered over. Thanks for taking us on the journey of how you make your journeys. Hope Billy is well and that you’re satisfied with your new caravan. Best wishes from the San Francisco Bay Area!
A car accident???
@@lizwilliams14 Yeah, I guess the parent or grandparent in me was reacting to Ben’s headline that “RUclips is TOUGH.” Thought something calamitous had happened.
If my Dad was alive, he would have loved your channel for he was also a church organist. He was also the Dean of the American Guild of Organists. He composed music, designed and even built a pipe organ. So many hymns you have played over the months bring so many warm memories as a choir boy under my Dad’s direction. Thank you!
Couldn’t find the PayPal link. Have you thought of setting up a “Buy me a coffee “ link? Easy way to generate revenue.
My best to you!
Thank you for playing Mendelssohn. I love his organ music.
Thank you for this week’s episode. My favourite part of this video is the journeying and reflections on how people traversed to these churches. It made me think again about how intimately people knew the landscape and to consider the great distances they walked everyday, with Sunday’s walk to church being the most important of all.
The change in the weather on the day of filming is a true representation of the English weather and how it is, and always was, such an important part of the journey. It is an incredible thing to expose oneself to all weather conditions, to experience it fully, and to reflect on other’s experiences through this.
You make filming look very natural in the way that you are able to maintain composure and command with so much going on around you, and with so much to think about.
I think the last two videos have given an important insight into how much work goes into creating these videos and how tricky it can sometimes be to access these historic places.
I am happy that there is a new and exciting video in the works, as a result of this one…journeying onwards.
Thanks Miranda, I appreciate this very much :)
fabulous Ben. so heartwarming. thank you so much.
Many thanks and many greetings from Romania!!
I am so happy to have found you on RUclips. You are a breath of fresh air!
Greetings from Ohio, USA
Absolutely Wonderful. I truly love your videos. Thank you ever so much
Thank you very much for the pilgrimage on the last Sunday of summer. 🙏"Go in Peace - Go in Joy -Go in Love" 🌿🌿🌿💥❤🍂🍃
I love England too. I think of all my ancestors here in the American South who had English surnames and consider there journey to a far away English colony. Must have been very difficult for them. Perhaps some of them stepped foot in some of those old churches you visit. I heard an English lady say that she was surprised to find that apon visiting America it was in the South that she found more of a connection to England. The small town that I am from in N. Carolina has a huge Georgian manor house stood right in the middle of town, on a 14 acre park, built by King George for his royal governor in the 1750s. Of course we later told him to get lost. I don't think he liked that very much. Although I am proud of my ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary war and proud to be an American, my love for England is still there. It is a blood connection I believe and even a big family fight cannot end that connection. I think a lot of Americans feel this way. Love that piece you played on that wonderful organs and what a beautiful ruin that first church you visited was. I sure would love to hear you recite that most famous poem, " this plot, this realm, this emerald set in silver sea. This England." Lesley Howard recites it beautifully in that old movie The Scarlet Pimpernel.
@carlaanderson6205 ---> I also have about 90% English blood in my veins. You probably do know this, but ---- not every person in the colonies was a rebel. Quite the contrary. About 1/3 were rebels, 1/3 were loyalists/Royalist (Amen!) and about a 1/3 were "fence-sitters" (seeing which way the wind would blow.) North Carolina was home to many Loyalists, and they served in pro-British militias and wore green and white uniforms, or outright joined British Army units (Redcoats). Ben Franklin's son was the Royal Governor of New Jersey and completely against his father's rebel nonsense.
P.S. - I do not know why the Y.T. hamster put a line through my words. I did not type anything foul or obscene.
One church per video is wonderful, two is bonus and three… well that’s beyond ambitious for a day’s outing. Thanks as always for a wonderful Sunday evening escape Ben, our wish is you keep up the good work and not burn out by ever increasing ambition in your weekly films
Ben you are a beautiful magician! . Do not stop recording . Go in peace ,go in joy ,go in love , and thank you for taking us with you every time, I am so grateful . ❤
We had a Connacher organ in our Victorian Church, but unfortunately, when it was uncecessarily demolished, the organ was taken out.and thrown in the town dump. Hurts to this day.
😢
Sad but it's not hard to see why. Such organs cost a lot of money to install and to maintain. The small church I attend couldn't afford to install one even if we were offered. We use a Yamaha keyboard as an organ.
I love what you do, Ben, I love the beauty and spirit of England you tap into, I love your music, and your words. Thank you!