: A brilliant opening that utilizes the classic French registration of the same name. It is characterized by imposing rhythmic drive and biting dissonances.
For the student, it teaches:
Langlais later entered the Paris Conservatoire, studying composition with Marcel Dupré (the "Paganini of the organ") and improvisation with Charles Tournemire. This pedigree placed him squarely in the lineage of the great French organ school. However, Langlais developed a unique voice: a synthesis of Gregorian chant modality (he was a devout Catholic), the rhythmic drive of folk music, and the dissonant yet controlled harmony of the post-Romantic era.
: Performance requires confident use of the pedals and a mastery of the "Solesmes style" of chant-inspired rhythmic flexibility. Where to Find the Score
If you are looking for a , it is important to note that the work is still under copyright protection. Unlike older works by Bach or Franck, Jean Langlais passed away in 1991, meaning his music is generally not in the public domain.
