Marchand: Œuvres pour orgue

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the resplendent world of Baroque organ music with "Marchand: Œuvres pour orgue," a stunning collection of works by the renowned French composer Louis Marchand. Released in 2013, this album is a testament to Marchand's mastery of the organ, featuring a selection of his most captivating compositions spread across five books. The album spans a generous 72 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Marchand's organ repertoire.

Frédéric Desenclos, a virtuoso organist, brings these historic pieces to life with remarkable skill and sensitivity. The album showcases the grandeur and intricacy of Marchand's compositions, from the powerful "Plein jeu" to the delicate "Duo" and "Trio" movements. Each track is a masterclass in Baroque organ playing, highlighting the rich textures and dynamic range of the instrument.

The recording itself is a technical marvel, capturing the splendor of the organ in exquisite detail. The album's production quality is top-notch, ensuring that every nuance of Desenclos's performance is preserved. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Marchand: Œuvres pour orgue" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. This album is a celebration of Louis Marchand's enduring legacy and a testament to the timeless beauty of Baroque organ music.

22 februari 2013

2013 Radio France

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.