Symphonies for organ? In the 19th century, an organ type with orchestral allure emerged. The organ builder Cavaillé-Coll was perhaps its most important creator. One of his most imposing instruments became the organ of the Saint-Sulpice in Paris. For some six decades it was played by Widor. He composed ten so-called organ symphonies, of which the Fifth (with the Toccata) became the most famous. Most
… visionary, however, are the last symphonies: the Gothique (No.9) and the Romane (No.10). Both symphonies in a way foreshadowed the 20th century, as if the Gothique already showed something of Dupré and the Romane something of Tournemire. The terms Gothic and Romanesque refer to the architectural styles of the churches where the symphonies were premiered (in Rouen and Toulouse, respectively). Both symphonies have a Gregorian melody as their starting point. In the Gothique it is Puer natus est nobis (for Christmas), in the Romane Haec dies (for Easter). Especially the Symphonie Romane became a kaleidoscopic whole, thanks to the agile Gregorian data. Nice that organist Reitano does not play the seasoned recital organist here. The contemplative nature of this music comes into its own as a result. (HJ)more
