Koechlin: L'abbaye, Sonatines & Chorals

Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate world of Charles Koechlin's "L'abbaye, Sonatines & Chorals," a captivating collection of chamber music released on July 1, 2013, under the Skarbo label. This album is a testament to Koechlin's mastery of composition, featuring a diverse range of works that showcase his unique voice and technical prowess.

The album opens with "L'abbaye, Op. 16," a choral work that blends sacred texts with Koechlin's distinctive harmonic language. The piece is performed with exquisite sensitivity by the ensemble, highlighting the composer's ability to evoke a sense of reverence and introspection. Following this, the album delves into Koechlin's "Organ Sonatines, Op. 107," a series of three sonatinas that demonstrate his skill in writing for the organ. Each sonatina is a journey in itself, with movements that range from lively and energetic to contemplative and serene.

Jean Galard's performance of these sonatinas is nothing short of breathtaking, bringing out the full depth and complexity of Koechlin's writing. The album also includes "4 Chorals, Op. 98" and a "Choral in F Minor, Op. 90bis," further showcasing Koechlin's ability to create profound and moving music from simple, sacred texts.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Koechlin's choral and organ works, performed with the highest level of artistry. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Koechlin's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.