Reger: Organ Works, Vol. 6

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Max Reger's organ works with the release of "Reger: Organ Works, Vol. 6." This captivating collection, released on January 3, 2020, under the CPO label, spans a substantial 2 hours and 5 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Reger's mastery over the organ.

Max Reger, a German composer, pianist, organist, and conductor, is renowned for his complex and expressive compositions. This volume showcases his liturgical works, featuring a diverse array of pieces that highlight his virtuosic command of the organ. The album includes excerpts from his "52 Chorale Preludes, Op. 67, Book 3," "13 Choral Preludes, Op. 79b," "12 Stücke, Op. 80," and "30 Little Chorale Preludes, Op. 135a," among others. Each piece is a testament to Reger's ability to blend technical brilliance with deep emotional resonance.

The album opens with the majestic "Introduction, Passacaglia and Fugue, Op. 127," a three-movement work that exemplifies Reger's contrapuntal skill and harmonic richness. The "Passacaglia" and "Fugue" movements are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the composer's ability to develop a single theme into a complex and evolving musical narrative.

Throughout the album, Reger's compositions are characterized by their intricate polyphony, rich harmonies, and profound expressiveness. The "52 Chorale Preludes, Op. 67, Book 3" are particularly notable for their use of Lutheran chorales, which Reger transforms into intricate and deeply moving organ works. Similarly, the "30 Little Chorale Preludes, Op. 135a" offer a series of shorter, more intimate pieces that are no less profound in their emotional impact.

The album also includes several standalone pieces, such as the "Prelude in C Minor, WoO 8 No. 6" and "Fugue in C Minor, WoO 4 No. 8," which demonstrate Reger's ability to create compelling and engaging works even within a single movement. The "Prelude & Fugue in D Minor, WoO 4 No. 10" is another standout piece, showcasing Reger's ability to blend the traditional forms of the prelude and fugue with his own unique harmonic language.

Performer Gerhard Weinberger brings these works to life with a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. His mastery of the organ is evident in every note, and his ability to convey the emotional depth of Reger's compositions is truly remarkable.

"Reger: Organ Works, Vol. 6" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the organ repertoire or the works of Max Reger. It offers a comprehensive overview of Reger's liturgical works, showcasing his ability to blend technical brilliance with deep emotional resonance. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Reger's music or a newcomer to his works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.