Alkan: Organ Music, Vol. 1

Charles-Valentin Alkan's "Alkan: Organ Music, Vol. 1" is a captivating journey into the world of classical organ music, released on January 1, 2000, under the Toccata Classics label. This album spans a total of 76 minutes and is a testament to Alkan's virtuosic compositional skills and deep understanding of the organ's expressive capabilities.

The album features a diverse collection of pieces, including the Benedictus, Op. 54, No. 12, and the 12 Organ Etudes, which showcase Alkan's technical prowess and innovative approach to organ composition. The Etudes, in particular, are a series of challenging and evocative pieces that explore a wide range of emotions and musical textures.

Additionally, the album includes the 11 Preludes from "Pieces dans le style religieux et un transcription du Messie de Handel, Op. 72." These preludes are inspired by religious themes and demonstrate Alkan's ability to blend sacred music with his own unique compositional voice. The album concludes with a transcription of Handel's "Messiah," specifically the aria "Thy rebuke hath broken His heart / Behold, and see," arranged by Alkan himself.

Charles-Valentin Alkan was a French composer and pianist known for his complex and demanding compositions. His works often pushed the boundaries of musical expression and technique, and his organ music is no exception. This album offers a fascinating glimpse into Alkan's musical world and is sure to delight fans of classical organ music.