Composer

:

Jehan Alain

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Toccata

Compose Date

:

Aug 1937

Publication Date

:

1939

First Performance

:

Feb 17, 1938

Average_duration

:

4:37

Jehan Alain's 'Litanies, JA 119, AWV 100' is a powerful and haunting work for organ that was composed in 1937. The piece is comprised of a single movement that is approximately six minutes in length. It was premiered by Alain himself at the Church of Saint-Nicolas-du-Chardonnet in Paris on June 11, 1937. The piece is characterized by its relentless and driving rhythm, which is established from the very beginning by a repeated motif in the pedal. This motif is then taken up by the manuals, creating a dense and powerful texture that builds in intensity throughout the piece. The harmonies are often dissonant and unresolved, adding to the sense of tension and urgency. Despite its intensity, 'Litanies' is also marked by moments of quiet introspection and reflection. These moments provide a welcome contrast to the driving rhythm and allow the listener to catch their breath before being swept up again in the relentless energy of the piece. Overall, 'Litanies' is a masterful work that showcases Alain's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the capabilities of the organ. Its power and intensity have made it a favorite of organists and audiences alike, and it remains one of Alain's most enduring works.

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