Jean Langlais, a renowned French organist and composer, presents a captivating collection of organ works in "Clarke, C. P. E. Bach, L. Couperin & Pachelbel: Pièces pour orgue." Recorded in 1958 at the grand organ of the Église Sainte-Clotilde de Paris, this album showcases Langlais' exceptional skill and the rich, robust sound of the historic instrument. The mono version captures the grandeur and resonance of the church's acoustics, offering a unique listening experience.
The album features a diverse selection of pieces, including works by Jeremiah Clarke, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, Louis Couperin, and Johann Pachelbel. Highlights include the Trumpet Tune in D Major, formerly attributed to Henry Purcell, and several fugues from C. P. E. Bach's "Fugues on the Magnificat in Mode VI." Langlais' interpretations are marked by their solidity, energy, and a sound that is not typically French, offering a fresh perspective on these classical works.
With a duration of 28 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of organ music from the Baroque and early Classical periods. Jean Langlais' masterful playing and the impressive setting of Sainte-Clotilde de Paris make this a standout release in the world of classical organ recordings.