Immerse yourself in the profound and spiritual world of Charles Tournemire's "Tournemire: 2 Offices & 5 Improvisations for Organ," a captivating collection of organ works that showcases the composer's mastery and the instrument's grandeur. Recorded in 1978 and released under the Solstice label, this album is a testament to Tournemire's skill in blending liturgical music with improvisational genius.
The album features two complete offices: the "Office de Quasimodo" and the "Office de l’épiphanie," each divided into multiple movements, offering a rich tapestry of sacred music. These works are complemented by five improvisations, demonstrating Tournemire's ability to create spontaneous yet structured musical pieces. The improvisations include "Little Improvised Rhapsody," "Improvised Cantilene," and others, each piece a unique exploration of sound and emotion.
Performances on this album are rendered by renowned organists Todd Wilson and Philippe Lefebvre, who play the historic Danion-Gonzales organ at Chartres Cathedral. The recording captures the organ's majestic resonance and the performers' nuanced interpretations, providing a listening experience that is both intimate and awe-inspiring.
With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through Tournemire's musical vision. Whether you are a fan of classical music, organ performances, or sacred compositions, this album offers a deep and rewarding exploration of one of the 20th century's most significant organ composers.