The Times Argus Online

MIDDLEBURY, VT

“‘Charisma’ has been a word that isn’t commonly used to describe organists, perhaps last applied to E. Power Biggs and Virgil Fox, and that was some 50 years ago.  Yet few who heard Nathan Laube’s recital Sunday at Middlebury College’s Mead Chapel would deny him that appellation — and he’s only 25.

“In works of Johann Sebastian Bach and Franz Liszt, Laube not only wowed his enthusiastic audience, he illuminated the large and complex works by these great masters.  For Laube is that rare animal, a concert organist — unlike his church brethren — and a true virtuoso.

“In short, it was fascinating, extravagant fun — and Laube delivered, making it a deep musical experience.  His subtle rhythmic sense made his Bach performances, which made up the first half of the program, infectious — even charismatic.

“This was Laube’s third performance at Middlebury College, and it is no surprise that he was invited back. He should be invited back again.”