Immerse yourself in the majestic world of Charles-Marie Widor's organ symphonies with this captivating album, released on February 3, 2015, by CPO. Spanning a total of 2 hours and 14 minutes, this collection features all four of Widor's renowned Organ Symphonies (Op. 13 Nos. 1-4), each a masterpiece of composition and performance.
Charles-Marie Widor, a French composer and organist, is celebrated for his significant contributions to organ music. His symphonies, composed between 1872 and 1875, are a testament to his virtuosity and innovative spirit. This album offers a comprehensive journey through Widor's symphonic works, from the dramatic opening of the first symphony in C Minor to the triumphant finale of the fourth symphony in F Minor.
Each symphony is a multi-movement work, showcasing a variety of moods and styles. The first symphony, for instance, includes a solemn Prélude, a lively Allegretto, and a majestic Marche pontificale, while the second symphony features a pastoral interlude and a triumphant finale. The third and fourth symphonies continue this tradition of diversity and innovation, each offering a unique blend of musical expression.
This album is a must for fans of classical music and organ enthusiasts alike. The intricate compositions and powerful performances make it a standout addition to any music collection. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Widor's work or a newcomer to his music, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.
2015 CPO2015 CPO
Tracks
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: I. PréludeCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: II. AllegrettoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: III. IntermezzoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: IV. AdagioCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: V. Marche pontificaleCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: VI. Méditation. LargoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 13 No. 1: VII. FinaleCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 13 No. 2: I. Praeludium circulare. AndantinoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 13 No. 2: II. Pastorale. ModeratoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 13 No. 2: III. AndanteCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 13 No. 2: IV. Salve Regina. AllegroCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 13 No. 2: V. AdagioCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 13 No. 2: VI. Finale. AllegroCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 13 No. 3: I. Prélude. ModeratoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 13 No. 3: II. MinuettoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 13 No. 3: III. MarciaCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 13 No. 3: IV. Adagio - V. Fugue. Moderato assaiCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 13 No. 3: VI. Finale. Allegro moltoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 13 No. 4: I. ToccataCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 13 No. 4: II. Fugue. Moderato assaiCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 13 No. 4: III. Andante cantabileCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 13 No. 4: IV. Scherzo. Allegro vivaceCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 13 No. 4: V. AdagioCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt
Organ Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 13 No. 4: VI. Finale. ModeratoCharles-Marie Widor, Christian Schmitt