{"product_id":"couperin-f-organ-masses","title":"COUPERIN, F.: Organ Masses","description":"\u003cimg src=\"\/graphics\/p10s10.gif\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  Although we usually associate Masses with vocal music, these solo organ works by a very young François Couperin (published in 1690) are examples of a form and style common to the place and time--one that included the organ as a significant part of the celebration of Mass, either replacing or enhancing sections of the spoken liturgy. The producers of this outstanding recording--presented in vivid, palpably realistic sound on two CDs--have chosen to include only the organ's contributions to these services, wisely eliminating the interspersed plainchant passages that would have occurred in a normal service.\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e While the purely musical rewards of this recital are many--Couperin exhibits an impressive range of formal\/structural technical mastery, particularly regarding counterpoint and use of texture, register, and articulation for expressive\/dramatic effect--organ enthusiasts will absolutely want to hear this for the commanding presence of the organ itself. The well-preserved, minimally altered 18th-century François-Henri Clicquot organ at Poitiers Cathedral is one of the world's treasures, and its indisputably authentic French credentials are on full display here, particularly regarding the assertive, rich-colored reeds (the 16' bombarde pedal stop is a treat!) and lively, lustrous winds. Organist Jean-Baptiste Robin knows this instrument well and delightfully exploits its multifarious voices (if only we had a list of the registrations he uses on each track) while making sure we hear the important inner lines and plainchant themes. If you love organ music, don't miss this--and don't be afraid to turn it up!\u003cbr\u003e --David Vernier, ClassicsToday.com","brand":"Naxos","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":49705709895960,"sku":"747313274123","price":29.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0687\/4346\/3192\/files\/762273.jpg?v=1777570216","url":"https:\/\/hbdirect.com\/products\/couperin-f-organ-masses","provider":"HBDirect","version":"1.0","type":"link"}