Florilège Widor et Vierne

Immerse yourself in the resplendent world of Louis Vierne's organ masterpieces with "Florilège Widor et Vierne," a captivating live album released on December 15, 2023, under the Halidon/Augure label. This exquisite collection of chamber music showcases the virtuosity and depth of Vierne's compositions, performed with unparalleled skill and passion.

The album features a selection of Vierne's most celebrated works, including movements from his Organ Symphonies and pieces from his "24 Pièces de fantaisie" and "24 Pièces en style libre" collections. Highlights include the dynamic "Allegro" from Organ Symphony No. 6, the lively "Allegro vivace" and the exhilarating "Toccata" from Organ Symphony No. 5, and the serene "Cantabile" from Organ Symphony No. 2. Each piece is performed live, capturing the raw energy and immediacy of a live performance.

With a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, "Florilège Widor et Vierne" offers a comprehensive exploration of Vierne's organ repertoire, showcasing his unique blend of technical brilliance and expressive depth. The album is a testament to Vierne's enduring legacy as one of the most important organ composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and a treat for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of the organ.

Louis Vierne, a titan of French organ music, was born in 1870 in Poitiers, nearly blind due to congenital cataracts. Despite his visual impairment, Vierne's exceptional musical ear and prodigious talent led him to become one of the most renowned organists and composers of the 20th century. He studied under the legendary César Franck and Charles-Marie Widor at the Paris Conservatoire, and later succeeded Widor as the organist of Notre-Dame de Paris, a position he held until his death in 1937. Vierne's compositions, which include six monumental organ symphonies and a Messe solennelle, are marked by a unique blend of late Romanticism and musical Impressionism. His virtuosic performances and innovative compositions left an indelible mark on the world of organ music. Vierne's personal life was marked by tragedy, including the loss of his wife and subsequent partner, and numerous painful operations to restore his sight. Yet, his resilience and artistic genius continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike. His students, including the legendary Nadia Boulanger and Maurice Duruflé, further cemented his legacy as a master of the organ and a pioneer in the world of music.