Our songs are without words, colorful portraits painted with tones alone. This week, Paul Manz spins tuneful improvisations around familiar holiday melodies, and then Olivier Messiaen infuses mere chords and rhythms with an almost iconic presence.
Shepherds and Magi, heavenly hosts and eternal purposes hover above a mother and child in Bethlehem, as we meditate upon the magic of the season and the mysteries of faith. Nine recitalists, from Germany, Britain, Sweden, the United States and France retell the story of The Nativity of the Lord in a unique expression for holiday reflection.
Composers old and new create music of awe and expectation that preludes the Christmas festival.
…in tribute to Olivier Messiaen on the centenary of his birth, a composite performance of one of his best-loved compositions, La Nativité du Seigneur, music inspired by the birth of Jesus.
…more recently released CDs featuring organs, composers and performers from Europe and elsewhere.
…the traditional summing-up of some of the year’s activity in the world of the King of Instruments.
…recent selections from one of America's prime 'organ labels', and conversations with Raven's curator William Van Pelt.
…whether in Michigan or New Mexico, Ely or Orleans, the music of Christmas resounds of peace and joy.
…as prelude to the next Pipedreams Tour (May 23-June 4), this selection of instruments featured in our itinerary.
…a bicentennial reflection upon the art of one of the most popular and powerful Parisian organists of the 19th century, Louis James Alfred Lefébure-Wely (1817-1869).
…picturesque evocations of the first Christmas, including the extraordinary music of Olivier Messiaen.
…Reflections by the famous French teacher and performer, whose many recordings document a long and continuing pursuit.
…Rendering homage unto Cesar Franck in celebration of his December birthday and this year of the centenary of his death.
…a collection of compositions on themes of resurrection, rebirth and renewal.
A journey of enhanced perception, guided by Rollin Smith, Towards an Authentic Interpretation of the Organ works of Cesar Franck, with notable and historic examples.
…french organ music for the Christmas season, in digital recordings by Wolfgang Rubsam and Todd Wilson.
