Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Joseph Jongen's "Symphonie concertante, Op. 81," a remarkable piece that showcases the Belgian composer's exceptional talent. Born in Liège in 1873, Jongen displayed an extraordinary musical aptitude from a young age, and this work stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. Recorded in 1962 and released under the BNF Collection label, this album presents a single, four-movement symphonie concertante for organ and orchestra, lasting approximately 35 minutes.
The "Symphonie concertante, Op. 81" is a tour de force that highlights the dynamic interplay between the organ and the orchestra. The four movements—Allegro, molto moderato; Divertimento, molto vivo; Molto lento; and Toccata, moto perpetuo—offer a rich tapestry of musical emotions and technical brilliance. This recording features the Oslo-Filharmonien, conducted by Odd Grunner-Hegge, with Thomas Trotter on the organ, and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales under the direction of Thomas Sondergard.
Jongen's composition is not only a significant work in his oeuvre but also a piece that has left a lasting impact on the classical music world. It played a pivotal role in establishing Georges Prêtre as a world-renowned conductor. The album is a must-listen for those interested in the symphonic works of the early 20th century and the unique contributions of Joseph Jongen to the classical music canon.