Charles Tournemire - Great European Organs, Vol. 19: Orléans Cathedral (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant sounds of Orléans Cathedral with Charles Tournemire's "Great European Organs, Vol. 19." This captivating album, released on Priory Records in 1989, showcases Tournemire's masterful organ playing and his profound connection with the instrument. The album spans a full hour, featuring a mix of Tournemire's original compositions and his improvisations on themes by other composers, arranged by Maurice Duruflé.

The tracklist includes the three movements of Tournemire's "Triple Choral, Op. 41," each offering a unique blend of solemnity and expressiveness. The "5 Improvisations" provide a glimpse into Tournemire's virtuosic skill and creative genius, with excerpts such as "Fantaisie-improvisation sur l'Ave maris stella" and "Choral-improvisation sur le Victimae paschali" demonstrating his ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies. The album concludes with the grand "Symphonie-choral, Op. 69," a testament to Tournemire's compositional prowess.

Charles Tournemire, a French organist, composer, and improviser, was renowned for his deep understanding of the organ and its capabilities. His works often reflect his spiritual beliefs and his love for the French symphonic tradition. This album is a wonderful introduction to Tournemire's music and a treat for anyone interested in the organ and its rich repertoire.