Hommage à Maurice Duruflé: Œuvres pour orgue et chœur

Album Description

Dive into the rich, resonant world of sacred music with Thierry Escaich's "Hommage à Maurice Duruflé: Œuvres pour orgue et chœur." This captivating album, released in 2002, is a tribute to the renowned French composer Maurice Duruflé, celebrating his centenary with a collection of organ and choral works that blend tradition and innovation.

Thierry Escaich, a prolific French composer and organist, curates this album with a deep reverence for Duruflé's legacy. The album features a mix of Duruflé's compositions and Escaich's own works, all performed with exquisite skill and sensitivity. The Cambridge Voices, under the direction of Ian de Massini, provide lush, harmonious choral accompaniment, while Escaich's masterful organ playing brings depth and warmth to each piece.

The album opens with Duruflé's "Te deum," a powerful and uplifting work that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Escaich's own compositions, such as the "Quatre Motets sur des thèmes grégoriens" and the improvisatory "Commentaire improvisé" pieces, showcase his unique voice and his deep understanding of the organ's capabilities. The album also includes a touching "In memoriam," composed specifically for this tribute.

Recorded at the historic Saint Etienne-du-Mont in Paris, the album benefits from exceptional acoustics that allow the organ's full range to shine. The choral performances are equally impressive, with the Cambridge Voices delivering clear, precise vocals that complement the organ's rich tones.

"Hommage à Maurice Duruflé: Œuvres pour orgue et chœur" is a testament to the enduring power of sacred music and the skill of its interpreters. Whether you're a fan of organ music, choral works, or simply appreciate beautiful, well-crafted compositions, this album is sure to resonate with you.

1 januari 2002

Calliope

Arpège

About Thierry Escaich

Thierry Escaich is a distinguished French composer, organist, and improviser, renowned for his unique contributions to contemporary music. As one of the most significant French composers of his generation, Escaich's work spans a diverse range of compositions, including orchestral pieces, organ works, and choral music. His compositions often draw inspiration from classical masters like Bach, as seen in his piece 'Baroque Song', which incorporates chorale preludes by the legendary composer. Escaich's music has been performed by prestigious ensembles such as the Orchestre Philharmonique de Liège and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, highlighting his standing in the musical world. Beyond his compositional prowess, Escaich is also an accomplished organist, serving at the historic Church of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont in Paris. His ability to blend traditional and modern elements makes his music both accessible and innovative, appealing to a wide audience.