Duruflé: Requiem op. 9, Suite op. 5

Immerse yourself in the profound and serene sounds of Maurice Duruflé's masterful compositions with this captivating album, released in 1997 by Thorofon Records. This collection features Duruflé's iconic "Requiem, Op. 9," a deeply moving setting of the Latin Requiem, and the enchanting "Suite for Organ, Op. 5." The Requiem, composed in 1947 and revised in 1961, is a testament to Duruflé's mastery of blending Gregorian chant with rich harmonic textures, creating a work of unparalleled beauty and spiritual depth.

The album spans a duration of one hour and four minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Duruflé's choral and organ works. The Requiem, originally commissioned by France's Vichy government, is performed with solo baritone, mezzo-soprano, mixed choir, and organ, showcasing the intricate interplay between these voices. The Suite for Organ, Op. 5, complements the Requiem with its three movements: Prelude, Sicilienne, and Toccata, each demonstrating Duruflé's virtuosity and sensitivity to the organ's expressive capabilities.

This album is a treasure trove for lovers of choral and organ music, providing a rich and immersive experience of Duruflé's unique musical language. Whether you are familiar with Duruflé's work or discovering it for the first time, this collection promises a deeply rewarding listening experience.

Maurice Duruflé, born in 1902 in Louviers, France, was a multifaceted musical genius known for his compositions, organ playing, and teaching. His works, though few in number, are deeply revered for their unique blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Duruflé's most celebrated piece, the Requiem, is a masterful fusion of ancient liturgical music and 20th-century compositional techniques. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional harpist, and continued at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, where he studied with notable figures like Paul Dukas and Charles Tournemire. Duruflé's influence extends beyond his compositions; he was also a respected professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy endures through his evocative choral works and organ pieces, which continue to captivate audiences with their profound emotional depth and technical brilliance.