Immerse yourself in the masterful artistry of Pierre Cochereau, one of the most renowned organists of the 20th century, with this captivating album. Released on January 1, 1970, "Cochereau: The Art of Variation" showcases Cochereau's extraordinary skill in improvisation and variation, a hallmark of his performances. The album features a collection of variations on beloved themes, including "Adeste Fideles," "La Marseillaise," and other cherished Noël melodies, demonstrating Cochereau's ability to transform familiar tunes into intricate and captivating compositions.
Cochereau, the esteemed organist of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris, studied under the legendary Marcel Dupré at the Paris Conservatoire, where he earned first prize for organ. His performances during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s acquired a cult following, making him a beloved figure in the French organ music scene. This album, digitally remastered from stereo recordings made during the 1970s, offers a rare opportunity to experience Cochereau's virtuosity and creativity.
With a duration of 58 minutes, "Cochereau: The Art of Variation" is a testament to Cochereau's technical prowess and musical ingenuity. The album's tracklist includes "Variations sur ‘Adeste fideles,’" "Variations sur 2 noëls," "Prélude et Choral varié sur un noël," and "Prélude, Adagio et Choral varié sur ‘La Marseillaise,’" each piece a showcase of Cochereau's unique interpretive style and improvisational genius. Whether you're a seasoned fan of organ music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave you spellbound by Cochereau's extraordinary talent.