Alain: L'oeuvre pour orgue

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative world of Jehan Alain's organ works with this comprehensive collection, "Alain: L'oeuvre pour orgue." Released on May 21, 2007, by Intrada, this double album spans nearly two hours of captivating music, featuring 30 tracks that showcase Alain's mastery of the organ. Marie-Claire Alain, a renowned organist, brings these compositions to life with her exquisite skill and deep understanding of the repertoire.

Jehan Alain, a French composer and organist, left an indelible mark on the world of classical music despite his tragically short life. Born in 1911, Alain's compositions are characterized by their rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and profound spiritual depth. This album presents a comprehensive survey of his organ works, from the hauntingly beautiful "Litanies" to the intricate "Variations sur un thème de Clément Jannequin."

The album is divided into two volumes, each containing a diverse range of pieces that highlight Alain's versatility and innovation. From the playful "Deux Danses à Agni Yavishta" to the solemn "Choral cistercien," every track offers a unique perspective on Alain's artistic vision. The inclusion of lesser-known works, such as "Climat" and "Monodie," provides a deeper insight into his creative process and musical evolution.

Recorded with meticulous attention to detail, this album captures the full resonance and power of the organ, allowing the listener to appreciate the full scope of Alain's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Alain: L'oeuvre pour orgue" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dive into the timeless beauty of Jehan Alain's music and discover the enduring legacy of one of the 20th century's most gifted composers.

May 21, 2007

2007 Intrada

About Jehan Alain

Jehan Alain was a prodigious French organist, composer, and soldier, born into a family of musicians in the suburbs of Paris. His musical journey began under the tutelage of his father, a renowned organ teacher and builder, and continued with a host of other instructors. By the age of 18, Alain was already composing, and he continued to create until the outbreak of World War II. His compositions, over 140 in total, blend romantic, modern, and exotic influences, reflecting his fascination with the music, dance, and philosophy of the Far East, as well as the musical language of Claude Debussy and medieval plainsong.

Alain's life was tragically cut short when he was killed in action during the Battle of Saumur at the age of 29. Despite his brief career, his works, such as the ecstatic "Litanies" and "Trois Danses," have left an indelible mark on the world of organ music. His legacy is preserved in the restored organs of his family, including the one in Romainmôtier, Switzerland, and in the numerous recordings and manuscripts that continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Alain's story is one of extraordinary talent, passion, and dedication, all wrapped up in a life that was unfortunately too short.