Organ Sonatas

The internationally renowned French organist, recitalist, and composer Alexandre Guilmant (1837-1911) was instrumental in popularizing organ works in the 19th century through the attractive qualities of his many compositions as well as his highly acclaimed performances. In the second half of the 19th century the timely development of the Cavaill -Coll organ -- an instrument of unsurpassed quality and range -- did much to establish a school of "symphonic" organ playing in which Guilmant and Charles-Marie Widor played an integral part. This appealing style is exemplified by the works featured in this excellent new compilation.

Written between 1874 and 1909, the five sonatas included here consist of three to six sections each and follow diverse formal designs. Reprinted from the original editions edited by the distinguished musical authority Arthur Eaglefield Hull, founder of the British Music Society, the collection includes Sonata No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 42; Sonata No. 2 in D Major, Op. 50; Sonata No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 56; Sonata No. 4 in D Minor, Op. 61; and Sonata No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 80. This inexpensive edition of five of Guilmant's finest works is certain to prove popular with a wide range of musicians and music lovers.