Twelve Choral Preludes on Gregorian Chant Themes

By Jeanne Demessieux

Jeanne Demessieux was one the most talented and passionate female organists or her generation. Molded and shaped by her teacher, Marcel Dupre, she possessed a flawless technique (in addition to wearing high heels for pedaling---which became her trademark.) These "Twelve Chorales on Gregorian Themes" represent her most accessible organ...

works. Her "Te Deum", "Etudes", "Response for Eastertide" and "Prelude & Fugue" are not for the faint of heart as to difficulty. These Gregorian themed pieces cover some of the important feasts/themes for the liturgical year, and should be in every serious organist's library.The simplicity of the "Rorate Caeli" and the dark richness of the "Attended Domine" are personal favorites, though every one in the collection is a gem and deserves to be played for liturgies and in recital.

A useful volume for the liturgical organist (bless the French composers!), especially for congregations where plainchant tunes are used. Even if chant is not used in a service context, the style of each piece lends it to appropriate use in context. For example, I have used "Hosanna Filio David" while...

palm crosses were beng handed out on Palm Sunday. Jeanne Demessieux writes sensitively for each theme, so many would find this volume useful for various times throughout the liturgical year.