Great Hours of Liturgy at Notre-Dame in Paris

Immerse yourself in the sacred and historic ambiance of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris with "Great Hours of Liturgy at Notre-Dame in Paris," a captivating album by the renowned organist Pierre Cochereau. Released on January 1, 1977, this album captures the essence of liturgical music, featuring a blend of Gregorian chants and classical organ pieces that have resonated within the hallowed walls of Notre-Dame for centuries.

Pierre Cochereau, the Organiste titulaire of Notre-Dame from 1955 until his passing in 1984, was known for his profound influence on French church music. His mastery of the organ is evident in this collection, which spans 54 minutes of meticulously performed pieces. The album begins with the haunting sounds of the cathedral's bells, setting the stage for a spiritual journey through the Great Hours of the liturgy.

The tracklist includes a mix of traditional Gregorian chants and more contemporary compositions, such as the "Te Deum (Gregorian)" and the "Magnificat (Gregorian)." Cochereau's skillful playing is showcased in pieces like "Choral in A Minor, BWV 434 ‘Wer nur den lieben Gott läßt walten’: Tantum Ergo" and the "Prose of Pentecost (Veni Sancte Spiritus)." The album also features the serene "Sicut Cervus" and concludes with the soothing "Alleluia & Improvised Postlude" and the gentle chiming of the cathedral's clock.

Recorded on the historic organ of Notre-Dame, this album offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich musical heritage of one of the world's most iconic cathedrals. Whether you are a devotee of classical music or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, "Great Hours of Liturgy at Notre-Dame in Paris" is a timeless collection that stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of liturgical music.

Pierre Eugène Charles Cochereau, born in 1924, was a titan of the organ world, renowned for his extraordinary improvisational skills and his profound impact on the instrument's legacy. As the titular organist of Notre-Dame de Paris from 1955 until his passing in 1984, Cochereau restored the cathedral's musical splendor and oversaw significant transformations of its renowned organ. His international recital career spanned continents, from South America to Australia, Asia, Canada, and Europe, with numerous tours across the United States. Cochereau's genius as an improviser was legendary, earning him accolades as one of the finest in the history of the organ. Beyond his performances, Cochereau was a dedicated pedagogue, influencing countless organists and composers. His recordings and compositions, such as "Prelude & Variations on 'Venez, Divin Messie'" and "Triptyque symphonique sur deux themes," continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Cochereau's legacy endures through his students, recordings, and the enduring influence of his innovative approach to the organ.