Customer Reviews

French Symphonic Masters

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This is a great recording of a variety of interesting works from the French Symphonic tradition. What sets it apart from other recordings of similar music is the setting. The organ is a 19th-century French style organ by the Dutch builder Verschueren (3 manuals and pedal; 43 stops) located in a specially built hall in the music building of the University of Göteborg. The organ builder Cavaille-Coll, whose work this organ is emulating, built several instruments in salons and music halls around Paris. These settings were more intimate, and offered a different type of musical experience than that of a vast cathedral. It is that aesthetic that is captured on this disc. The result of this combination of instrument, hall and repertoire is a recording that captures the intimacy and clarity of these musical textures.

The performances here are excellent. There is a level of thoughtfulness and detail not often found in performances of this repertoire. The crowning acheivement of this disc has to be the Toccata from the Suite by Duruflé. The tempo is lightning fast yet never rushed and always supported by technique and mastery of the music. It must be heard to be believed.

The organ is also a wonderful acheivement and a demonstration that it is possible to recreate the magic of Cavaille-Coll. The reeds have fire, the principals, warmth and the flutes, oh the French flutes. The recording is worth having purely as a reference to the French symphonic sound. You won't be dissapointed.

Rarely have I heard such artistry and musical elegance. These French masterpieces are played with such sensitivity and grace - particularly the Franck "Priere", Widor Symphonie VI/mvt one, and the entire Durufle "Suite" op. 5. The organ is fantastic (see liner notes for the fascinating history behind this organ). This is a "must have" for the organ lover!!!