Composer

:

Charles Tournemire

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Postlude

Compose Date

:

1935

Charles Tournemire's 'Postludes libres pour des Antiennes de Magnificat, Op. 68' is a collection of ten postludes for organ, composed in 1930. The work was premiered by Tournemire himself at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Paris, on December 7, 1930. The ten movements of the work are based on the antiphons of the Magnificat, which are the liturgical texts sung during the evening prayer service of the Catholic Church. Tournemire's postludes are not intended to be played as a complete cycle, but rather as individual pieces that can be used to conclude a service or recital. The first movement, 'O Adonai', is a slow and meditative piece, with a simple melody that is gradually developed throughout the movement. The second movement, 'O Radix Jesse', is more lively and rhythmic, with a playful melody that is passed between the hands of the organist. The third movement, 'O Clavis David', is a dramatic and intense piece, with a powerful pedal line and a soaring melody in the upper registers of the organ. The fourth movement, 'O Oriens', is a bright and joyful piece, with a lively rhythm and a sparkling melody. The fifth movement, 'O Rex Gentium', is a majestic and regal piece, with a grand melody that is played in the upper registers of the organ. The sixth movement, 'O Emmanuel', is a gentle and peaceful piece, with a simple melody that is played softly and delicately. The seventh movement, 'O Virgo Virginum', is a tender and intimate piece, with a gentle melody that is played in the middle registers of the organ. The eighth movement, 'O Magnum Mysterium', is a mysterious and atmospheric piece, with a haunting melody that is played in the lower registers of the organ. The ninth movement, 'O Salutaris Hostia', is a solemn and reverent piece, with a simple melody that is played in the middle registers of the organ. The final movement, 'O Sanctissima', is a joyful and exuberant piece, with a lively rhythm and a triumphant melody. Overall, Tournemire's 'Postludes libres pour des Antiennes de Magnificat, Op. 68' is a masterful work for organ, showcasing the composer's skill in creating a variety of moods and textures through the use of different melodies, rhythms, and harmonies.

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