Jean Langlais: Messe Solennelle

   in Choir & Organ (May, 2014)
Cavaille-Coll’s revolution in master organ building is well demonstrated by this recording, made in Sees Cathedral (Basse Normandie) with two of his magnificent instruments. Both the large west organ and the smaller Choir are used in these vigorous, clear and exquisite performances of Masses by Louis Vierne and Jean Langlais. Between these is placed the Prelude, adagio and choral variations by Maurice Durufle, with the Minster’s male voices providing the verses of Veni creator on which it is based. The recital ends with an organ Te Deum by Jeanne Demessieux, an invigorating and uncomfortably impressive rhythmic tour de force. …