Composer

:

César Franck

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prayer

Compose Date

:

ca. 1860

Average_duration

:

12:49

César Franck's 'Prière, for organ in C sharp minor, Op. 20, M. 32' is a beautiful and contemplative piece of music that was composed in 1863. It was premiered on December 31, 1863, at the inauguration of the new Cavaillé-Coll organ at the church of Sainte-Clotilde in Paris, where Franck was the organist. The piece is divided into three movements, with the first and third being slow and contemplative, while the second is more lively and energetic. The first movement begins with a simple melody played on the organ's solo stop, which is then joined by a gentle accompaniment. The melody gradually builds in intensity, with the accompaniment becoming more complex and the harmonies more rich and colorful. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful coda. The second movement is a scherzo, with a lively and playful melody that is full of energy and excitement. The organ's full range of colors and textures is on display here, with the music ranging from delicate and light to thunderous and powerful. The movement ends with a triumphant flourish. The third movement returns to the contemplative mood of the first, with a simple and beautiful melody that is played on the organ's solo stop. The melody is then joined by a gentle accompaniment, which gradually builds in intensity and complexity. The harmonies become more rich and colorful, and the music reaches a climax before subsiding into a quiet and peaceful coda. Overall, 'Prière' is a beautiful and contemplative piece of music that showcases the full range of the organ's capabilities. Its simple melodies and rich harmonies make it a favorite of organists and music lovers alike, and it remains one of Franck's most popular works.

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