Improvisation: The Illusionist's Art

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of organ improvisation with "Improvisation: The Illusionist's Art," a remarkable album featuring the virtuosic skills of Pierre Cochereau. This collection, released on November 23, 1992, under the Priory Records label, showcases Cochereau's extraordinary ability to weave intricate and expressive compositions on the organ. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical exploration.

The album is a testament to Cochereau's mastery of the organ, featuring five stunning tracks that highlight his improvisational genius. Each piece is a unique blend of classical structure and spontaneous creativity, arranged for the organ by David Briggs. The tracks include "Triptyque symphonique sur deux thèmes," "Berceuse à la mémoire de Louis Vierne," "Cantem toto la Gloria," "Suite à la française sur des thèmes populaires: II. Air 'Trimazo'," and "Prélude et variations sur 'Venez, Divin Messie'." These compositions demonstrate Cochereau's deep understanding of musical form and his ability to infuse each piece with a sense of wonder and innovation.

David Briggs, the transcriber and performer of these improvisations, spent over a decade meticulously transcribing Cochereau's improvisations from cassette recordings. His dedication to preserving and presenting Cochereau's work is evident in the precision and artistry of each performance. The album was recorded at the Organ of Truro Cathedral, providing a resonant and powerful setting for Cochereau's improvisations.

"Improvisation: The Illusionist's Art" is a celebration of Pierre Cochereau's legacy as one of the most influential organists of the 20th century. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of organ music, this album offers a profound and enriching listening experience.

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.