Composer

:

Maurice Duruflé

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Prelude

Compose Date

:

1930

Average_duration

:

20:26

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Maurice Duruflé's Prelude, Adagio and Chorale Variations on the Veni Creator, Op. 4 is a work for organ that was composed in 1930. It was premiered on June 12, 1931, at the Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont in Paris, where Duruflé was the assistant organist. The piece is divided into three movements: Prelude, Adagio, and Chorale Variations. The Prelude is marked by a fast tempo and a lively rhythm. It begins with a series of ascending arpeggios that create a sense of tension and anticipation. The music then moves into a more melodic section, with a series of descending scales that are played in a call-and-response style between the hands and feet of the organist. The movement ends with a return to the opening arpeggios, which are played with even greater intensity and energy. The Adagio is a slower, more contemplative movement. It begins with a series of soft, sustained chords that create a sense of stillness and calm. The music then moves into a more complex section, with a series of intricate melodies and harmonies that build in intensity and complexity. The movement ends with a return to the opening chords, which are played with even greater delicacy and sensitivity. The Chorale Variations are a series of variations on the Veni Creator, a hymn that is traditionally sung at Pentecost. The variations are marked by a slower tempo and a more contemplative mood. Each variation explores a different aspect of the hymn, with a series of intricate melodies and harmonies that build in complexity and intensity. The movement ends with a return to the original hymn, which is played with even greater grandeur and majesty. Overall, Duruflé's Prelude, Adagio and Chorale Variations on the Veni Creator, Op. 4 is a complex and intricate work that showcases the full range of the organ's capabilities. It is marked by a sense of tension and anticipation, as well as a deep sense of contemplation and spirituality. The piece is a testament to Duruflé's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the organ as an instrument.

More....