Durufle: Messe Cum Jubilo / Organ Suite, Op. 5

Experience the profound and serene compositions of Maurice Duruflé with this captivating album, "Durufle: Messe Cum Jubilo / Organ Suite, Op. 5." Released in 1995, this collection showcases Duruflé's mastery of choral and organ music, offering a blend of sacred and contemplative pieces that highlight his unique style and deep spiritual roots.

The album opens with Duruflé's "Mass, Op. 11, 'Cum jubilo'," a work that beautifully integrates Gregorian chant with rich harmonies and intricate polyphony. Each movement, from the solemn "Kyrie" to the jubilant "Gloria," demonstrates Duruflé's ability to evoke a sense of reverence and joy. The "Sanctus" and "Benedictus" movements are particularly noteworthy for their delicate textures and ethereal qualities, while the "Agnus Dei" concludes the mass with a poignant and reflective tone.

In addition to the mass, the album features Duruflé's "Prelude, Adagio et Choral varie sur le theme du Veni Creator, Op. 4," a stunning organ work that explores the theme of the Veni Creator hymn. The piece is divided into three sections: the contemplative "Adagio" and the varied and intricate "Choral varie," each showcasing Duruflé's skill in organ composition.

The album also includes the "Suite, Op. 5," a three-movement work for organ that features a "Prelude," a graceful "Sicilienne," and a dynamic "Toccata." These pieces highlight Duruflé's versatility as a composer, ranging from serene and introspective to lively and virtuosic.

Duruflé, a student of Charles Tournemire and Louis Vierne, was deeply influenced by the Solesmes method of chant performance, which is evident in the integration of Gregorian melodies into his compositions. His works are known for their lyrical beauty, harmonic richness, and spiritual depth, making this album a treasure for anyone interested in sacred music and organ repertoire.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album provides a comprehensive overview of Duruflé's choral and organ works, performed with precision and sensitivity. Whether you are a fan of classical music, sacred choral works, or organ music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Maurice Duruflé, born in 1902 in Louviers, France, was a multifaceted musical genius known for his compositions, organ playing, and teaching. His works, though few in number, are deeply revered for their unique blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Duruflé's most celebrated piece, the Requiem, is a masterful fusion of ancient liturgical music and 20th-century compositional techniques. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional harpist, and continued at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, where he studied with notable figures like Paul Dukas and Charles Tournemire. Duruflé's influence extends beyond his compositions; he was also a respected professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy endures through his evocative choral works and organ pieces, which continue to captivate audiences with their profound emotional depth and technical brilliance.