Marcel Dupré (1886-1971) is one of the most important French organists and composers of this century. Because he was not suitable for military service during the First World War, he managed to memorize all of Bach's organ works. He established his reputation by playing these organ works in public in 1920. His improvisation skills were also exceptional. Some of his improvisations later led to
… important compositions, such as the famous Symphonie-Passion. Dupre's style and technique would have a great influence on students such as Alain, Messiaen and Demessieux. The third part of the series published by Naxos with the organ works of Marcel Dupré contains the works he wrote for organ and orchestra. The program includes the version for organ and orchestra of what may be Dupre ' s most popular organ work is: the Cortège Et Litanie op.19 No. 2. The Poème Héroïque op.33 for organ and brass was written on the occasion of the 1936 commemoration of the battle of Verdun. Dupre's Symphonie op.25 for organ and orchestra was written in 1928 and dedicated to the English conductor Henry Wood. The CD opens with the Concerto op.31. The works are performed by organist Daniel Jay McKinley and the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic conducted by David Bowden. (HJ) The works are performed by organist Daniel Jay McKinley and the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic conducted by David Bowden. (HJ) The works are performed by organist Daniel Jay McKinley and the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic conducted by David Bowden. (HJ)more
