Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Louis Vierne's organ symphonies with the captivating album "Vierne: Organ Symphonies, Op. 47 & Op. 59." Released on April 25, 2014, under the esteemed Audite Musikproduktion label, this collection showcases the mastery of one of the most celebrated organists and composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Louis Vierne, a pupil of César Franck and Charles-Marie Widor, elevated the organ symphony to its highest stylistic peak, and this album offers a testament to his genius.
The album features two of Vierne's most monumental works: the Fifth Symphony in A minor, Op. 47, and the Sixth Symphony in B minor, Op. 59. Each symphony is a journey through a variety of moods and tempos, from the solemn and grave to the lively and exuberant. The Fifth Symphony, known for its grandeur and complexity, includes movements that range from the contemplative "Grave" to the spirited "Final. Allegro moderato." The Sixth Symphony, equally impressive, begins with an "Introduction and Allegro" that is both dramatic and intricate, followed by an "Aria. Andante quasi adagio" that is deeply moving, and concludes with a rousing "Final. Allegro molto."
Performed by the renowned organist Hans-Eberhard Roß on the magnificent Goll Organ of St. Martin in Memmingen, this recording is a technical and artistic triumph. Roß's interpretation brings out the full depth and richness of Vierne's compositions, making this album a must-listen for anyone interested in the organ symphony genre or the works of Louis Vierne. With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of Vierne's music.