Tournemire: 7 Chorals-poems / Choral-improvisation sur le Victimae paschali laudes - Langlais: Mors et Resurrectio

Immerse yourself in the profound and spiritual compositions of Charles Tournemire with this captivating album, released on August 1, 2010, by Loft Records. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, this collection showcases Tournemire's mastery of sacred music, blending traditional Gregorian chants with his own innovative improvisations and paraphrases.

The centerpiece of the album is Tournemire's "7 Chorals-poèmes, Op. 37," a series of seven deeply moving choral works that draw inspiration from the last words of Christ. Each piece is a poignant exploration of faith, suffering, and redemption, performed with exquisite sensitivity and technical brilliance. From the haunting "Pater, dimite illis" to the triumphant "Consummatum est," these chorals are a testament to Tournemire's ability to evoke profound emotional and spiritual responses.

In addition to the chorals, the album also features Tournemire's "Choral-improvisation sur le Victimae paschali laudes," a stunning improvisation on the ancient Easter chant, demonstrating his virtuosic skill and deep reverence for the Gregorian tradition.

Complementing Tournemire's works is Jean Langlais' "Mors et Resurrectio," a powerful and dramatic piece that explores themes of death and resurrection. This work, part of Langlais' "3 Paraphrases grégoriennes, Op. 5," adds a layer of depth and contrast to the album, showcasing the rich tapestry of sacred music from the early 20th century.

Whether you are a devotee of sacred music, a fan of Tournemire's work, or simply a lover of beautiful, evocative compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The blend of traditional and innovative elements, along with the profound spiritual themes, makes it a standout collection that will resonate with listeners long after the final note fades away.