Louis Vierne, Symphonie No 2, op. 20

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.