Vierne, Alain & Langlais: Messes pour chœurs et deux orgues

Experience the grandeur of French sacred music with "Vierne, Alain & Langlais: Messes pour chœurs et deux orgues," a stunning collaboration featuring the legendary organist Marie-Claire Alain. Released in 1990 under the Warner Classics label, this album is a testament to the power and beauty of choral and organ music, showcasing the works of Louis Vierne, Albert Alain, and Jean Langlais.

Marie-Claire Alain, renowned for her virtuosic organ playing, is accompanied by André Luy on the organ and the Ensemble Vocal de Lausanne, conducted by the esteemed Michel Corboz. The album features fifteen tracks, each a masterful rendition of sacred choral pieces and organ works, spanning a total duration of one hour and six minutes.

The album opens with Louis Vierne's "Messe solennelle, Op. 16," a monumental work that sets the tone for the entire collection. Following this, Albert Alain's "Messe en l'honneur de saint Louis" and Jean Langlais' "Messe solennelle, Op. 67" further enrich the listening experience with their unique compositions and harmonies. Each piece is performed with precision and passion, highlighting the technical prowess of the performers and the depth of the compositions.

This album is a celebration of French organ and choral music, offering a rich and immersive listening experience. Whether you are a fan of classical music, a devotee of sacred choral works, or simply seeking a profound musical experience, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Marie-Claire Alain was a titan of the organ world, renowned for her extraordinary recording career that spanned over 280 albums, making her the most-recorded classical organist in history. Born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France, in 1926, Alain's life was dedicated to the organ, both as a performer and a teacher. She was particularly celebrated for her interpretations of J.S. Bach, having recorded his complete organ works three times—a feat matched by only one other artist. Alain's repertoire extended beyond Bach, championing French organ music and the works of her brother, Jehan Alain. Throughout her career, she performed over 2,500 concerts worldwide, captivating audiences with her mastery and passion. Alain's influence extended to the next generation of organists, many of whom she taught and mentored. Her legacy endures as a pioneering spirit in historically informed performance and a champion of the organ's rich musical heritage.