Duruflé: Oeuvres pour orgue, orgue et choeur

Dive into the rich tapestry of sacred music with Thierry Escaich's "Duruflé: Oeuvres pour orgue, orgue et choeur," a captivating exploration of Maurice Duruflé's masterful compositions for organ and choir. Released in 2012, this album is a testament to Escaich's virtuosity and deep understanding of the sacred repertoire. The 18-track collection spans a total of 69 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Duruflé's most revered works.

The album opens with the stirring "Incipit Te Deum," setting the tone for the spiritual and musical depth that follows. Escaich's performance of Duruflé's "Te Deum" and "Notre Père" showcases his ability to blend the grandeur of the organ with the ethereal beauty of the choir. The "Suite Op. 5" features three movements—"Prélude," "Sicilienne," and "Toccata"—each demonstrating Duruflé's compositional genius and Escaich's interpretive skill.

The "4 Motets, Op. 10" series is a highlight of the album, with Escaich's improvisatory commentaries interspersed between the motets, adding a layer of spontaneity and personal expression. The motets themselves, including "Ubi Caritas," "Tota Pulchra es," "Tu es Petrus," and "Tantum Ergo," are performed with a sensitivity that brings out the profound spirituality of the texts.

The album also includes Escaich's own compositions, such as "Hommage à Jean Gallon" and "In memoriam," which pay tribute to the rich tradition of French organ music. The choral works, including "Victimae Pascali" and its improvisatory counterpart, showcase the collaborative brilliance of the Cambridge Voices and Escaich's masterful organ playing.

Thierry Escaich, known for his innovative approach to sacred music, brings a fresh perspective to these timeless works. His performances are marked by a deep respect for the musical heritage and a contemporary flair that makes this album a standout in the genre. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of sacred music or a newcomer to the genre, "Duruflé: Oeuvres pour orgue, orgue et choeur" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.