Search - Louis Vierne, Charles-Marie Widor, Joël Suhubiette :: Louis Vierne: Messe solennelle / Charles-Marie Widor: 10th Symphonie"Romane" - Michel Bouvard, Organ / Ensemble Les Elements / Joel Suhubiette

One of the best organ recordings I know

C. van de Woestijne | Graz, Austria | 11/19/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This disc is absolutely gorgeous. First, the Messe Solennelle with the crashing tutti of the organ contrasting the delicate lines of the choir; then, four of Vierne's irresistible character pieces, beautifully played with excellent choice of stops; finally, Widor's thrilling last Symphony, built entirely on one gregorian theme, but with astonishing variety. When you only know the earlier symphonies, such as the 5th with the famous Toccata, you're in for a surprise here: this music is completely free, soaring, with no hints of the former "salon" music whatsoever. Written as early as 1899, it predates all the gregorian-based music of Duruflé, Dupré, and many others.

Bouvard's playing is absolutely masterful, as is the recording itself. The disc features the (then) newly restored Cavaillé-Coll of St. Sernin in Toulouse; Widor's work was written explicitly for this instrument, even dedicated to it, and it's easy to hear why: all sonorities are exactly in place.

If you're willing to let yourself be carried away by profound musical effusions, this disc is for you!"