Composer: Marcel Dupré
Works: Three Preludes & Fugues (op. 7), Fifteen Versets for Vespers of Common Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary (op. 18), Cortège et Litanie (op. 19), Variations on a Noël (op. 20)
Performers: Jean-Pierre Lecaudey (organ)
Recording: Collegiate Church of St Martin, St Rémy-de-Provence, France, 7-9 November 1996
Label: Pavane Records ADW 7382 [67:05]
Marcel Dupré stands as a towering yet often overlooked figure in the pantheon of 20th-century composers, particularly known for his contributions to organ music. His unique blend of improvisational prowess and rigorous counterpoint places him in a lineage that includes the likes of J.S. Bach and Olivier Messiaen, his own student. Dupré’s works, while frequently celebrated among organists, remain relatively obscure in broader classical discourse, making this release of his organ repertoire a welcome addition to the recordings currently available.
Jean-Pierre Lecaudey’s interpretation of Dupré’s Three Preludes & Fugues (op. 7) is a masterclass in technical precision and interpretative insight. The performance of the famous Prelude and Fugue in G minor particularly stands out, with Lecaudey delivering a relentless torrent of semiquaver triplets that are executed with remarkable rhythmic accuracy. This piece, alongside the less flamboyant Fugues in B major and F minor, showcases Dupré’s ability to weave intricate counterpoint while maintaining a vibrant tonal palette. Lecaudey’s deft touch on the instrument, especially in executing the varied registrations, brings a refreshing lightness to the more complex textures, allowing the listener to appreciate each melodic line with clarity.
The Fifteen Versets for Vespers of Common Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary (op. 18) are a testament to Dupré’s improvisational genius, elegantly rooted in plainchant. Lecaudey’s performance captures the devotional essence of these pieces, particularly in the serene and reflective sections, while the concluding Toccata bursts forth with jubilant energy. The analogies drawn between Dupré’s Cortège et Litanie and the later Litanies of Jehan Alain are illuminating; the hypnotic motif lingers in the air, deftly handled by Lecaudey, who navigates the work’s contrasting sections with skillful expressiveness.
Dupré’s Variations on a Noël (op. 20) serves as a crowning achievement in this collection, showcasing the composer’s contrapuntal ingenuity. Lecaudey’s handling of the canonic variations is particularly commendable, where he expertly balances the intricate interplay between voices while maintaining a spirited momentum throughout. The climactic Toccata, powered by the organ’s formidable 32’ Bombarde, provides a thrilling conclusion to the disc. Notably, Lecaudey avoids the overly drawn-out final chords that often plague organ performances, delivering crisp, decisive endings that enhance the overall impact.
The recording quality is exceptionally well-crafted, capturing the organ’s rich timbral variety and the resonant acoustics of the Collegiate Church of St Martin. The engineering allows the listener to appreciate the full range of the instrument’s tonal capabilities, from the delicate flute stops in the G minor Prelude to the thunderous climaxes of the Variations. This careful attention to sound quality enhances the experience, drawing the listener into the world of Dupré’s music with clarity and depth.
This recording of Dupré’s works for organ, performed by Jean-Pierre Lecaudey, stands as a vital contribution to the existing discography. It not only highlights the beauty and complexity of Dupré’s compositions but also serves as a reminder of the composer’s enduring significance within the organ repertoire. As we look forward to the promised second volume of this essential collection, this release is highly recommended for both aficionados and newcomers alike, offering a compelling glimpse into the rich tapestry of Dupré’s musical legacy.
