Pierre Cochereau, the renowned French organist, invites you into the sacred space of Notre-Dame de Paris with his 1973 album, "Cochereau: The Liturgic Organist." This captivating collection showcases Cochereau's mastery of the Cavaillé-Coll organ, a symphonic marvel installed in the cathedral in 1867, previously played by the legendary Louis Vierne. The album is a testament to Cochereau's tenure as the organiste titulaire at Notre-Dame, a position he held from 1955 until his passing in 1984.
Spanning four masses, each divided into four movements—Entrée, Offertoire, Communion, and Sortie—this album is a liturgical journey through the heart of French organ music. Cochereau's virtuosity and serenity shine through in every note, offering a glimpse into the solemn beauty of a Solemn Mass at Notre-Dame. The album's duration of 72 minutes is a substantial exploration of Cochereau's interpretative prowess and the organ's majestic range.
Recorded on the historic Cavaillé-Coll organ, this album is not just a musical experience but a historical document, capturing the essence of liturgical organ playing at one of the world's most iconic cathedrals. Cochereau's improvisational skills and deep understanding of the organ's symphonic capabilities make this album a timeless treasure for organ enthusiasts and classical music lovers alike.