Composer

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Alexandre Guilmant

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Keyboard

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Keyboard

Alexandre Guilmant's 'L'organiste liturgiste, Op. 65' is a collection of 21 pieces for organ, composed between 1899 and 1901. The work was premiered in 1902 at the Trocadéro Palace in Paris, where Guilmant was the resident organist. The collection is divided into three movements, each containing seven pieces. The first movement is titled 'Offertoire', the second 'Communion', and the third 'Sortie'. Each movement is designed to be played during a specific part of a Catholic mass, with the 'Offertoire' pieces being played during the offertory, the 'Communion' pieces during the communion, and the 'Sortie' pieces during the recessional. The pieces in 'L'organiste liturgiste' are characterized by their grandeur and complexity, with Guilmant making full use of the organ's capabilities. The pieces are also highly expressive, with Guilmant using a variety of techniques to create a range of moods and emotions. One of the most notable pieces in the collection is the 'Marche funèbre et chant séraphique', which is often played at funerals. The piece begins with a mournful march, before transitioning into a more uplifting section that is meant to represent the ascent of the soul to heaven. Overall, 'L'organiste liturgiste, Op. 65' is a significant work in the organ repertoire, showcasing Guilmant's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the liturgical music tradition.

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