Experience the hauntingly beautiful and spiritually uplifting music of Maurice Duruflé in this captivating live concert recording from the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Released on August 25, 2014, by Solstice, this album captures the essence of Duruflé's masterful compositions and his wife Marie-Madeleine Duruflé's virtuoso performances. The album spans a rich tapestry of choral and organ works, showcasing Duruflé's deep connection to Gregorian chant and his innovative approach to sacred music.
The concert features a diverse selection of pieces, from the meditative "Improvised Choral on 'Victimae Paschali'" to the majestic "Symphony No. 6 in B Minor, Op. 59: II. Aria." Duruflé's "Variations sur un vieux noël, Op. 20" offers a festive and intricate exploration of a traditional French carol, while the "Fantasy in A Major, FWV 35" and "Prelude and Fugue on 'A.L.A.I.N', Op. 7" demonstrate his prowess in both improvisation and contrapuntal writing. The album concludes with the profound "Choral for Organ No. 1 in E Major, FWV 38," a piece that encapsulates Duruflé's ability to blend the sacred and the sublime.
With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album is a testament to the Duruflés' artistic collaboration and their enduring legacy in the world of sacred music. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Duruflé's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this recording offers a profound and moving experience that highlights the timeless beauty of his music.
Vinylscout