Louis Marchand: L'oeuvre d'orgue

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Baroque organ music with Louis Marchand's "L'oeuvre d'orgue." This album, released in 1986, is a comprehensive collection of Marchand's complete organ works, meticulously performed by François-Henri Houbart. Spanning over an hour and ten minutes, this recording features the full contents of Marchand's five books of organ music, offering a deep dive into the composer's mastery of the organ.

Louis Marchand, a French Baroque organist, harpsichordist, and composer, was born into a family of organists and left an indelible mark on the world of Baroque music. His compositions, characterized by their technical brilliance and expressive depth, are brought to life in this album. Each track, from the intricate "Premier livre d'orgue" to the profound "Cinquième livre d'orgue," showcases Marchand's unique voice and Houbart's exceptional skill.

This album is a treasure trove for fans of Gregorian chant and Baroque music, providing a rich and immersive experience. The detailed performances and high-quality recording make it an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "L'oeuvre d'orgue" promises a captivating journey through the world of Baroque organ music.

1 januari 1986

1986 Scam

About Louis Marchand

Louis Marchand, born in Lyon in 1669, was a French Baroque organist, harpsichordist, and composer, renowned for his virtuosity and flamboyant personality. Born into a family of organists, Marchand quickly rose to fame as a child prodigy, captivating audiences with his extraordinary talent. He served as an organist in numerous churches and even held the prestigious position of one of the four organistes du roy at the French court. Marchand's fiery temperament and arrogant demeanor often landed him in the midst of scandals, making him a controversial yet fascinating figure in the music scene. Despite his tumultuous personal life, his musical prowess earned him the admiration of King Louis XIV and the French public alike. Marchand's compositions, though few survive today, include notable works like the organ pieces "Grand dialogue" and "Fond d'orgue," which are celebrated as masterpieces of the French organ school. His life took a dramatic turn when he famously avoided a musical contest with Johann Sebastian Bach in Dresden, adding another layer of intrigue to his already legendary status. Marchand's legacy endures, not just for his musical genius, but also for the dramatic and captivating story of his life.