1977 Kuhn organ at the Hofkirche - St. Leodegar, Luzerne, Switzerland

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.

This week we take a listen to new recordings that represent an exceptional survey of four centuries of music.

A colorful collection both from and inspired by the pipe organ’s earliest known repertoire.

…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.

…a celebration of the blind French composer, Jean Langlais [1902-1991], featuring performances by himself and his wife, Marie-Louise Langlais, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of his death.

…continuing our Franz Liszt Bicentennial tribute with original scores and arrangements by Liszt and others that further realize the pipe organ’s promethean potential.

…for those who stayed at home, a musical diversion to accompany the current PIPEDREAMS group tour.

…a tribute some masters of the past, composers with significant anniversaries this year.

…music on themes for the season of Advent, heralding the coming of Christmas.

…a summer seasonal sampler of recent recordings, with comment.

A collection of music to stir the soul.