An imaginary encounter: Bach and Vierne

The tradition continues: following in the footsteps of Telemann, Handel, Pachelbel, Marchand, Widor, and many others, this time we will imagine a meeting between Johann Sebastian Bach and Louis Vierne, the famous French organist and titular organist of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, who deeply admired Johann Sebastian Bach. In particular, he transcribed Bach’s popular Sicilienne (BWV 1031) for organ and regularly included Bach’s works in his recitals, attesting to the enduring influence of the Leipzig Cantor not only on the French organ tradition but also in the composition of the magnificent Messe solennelle for choir and two organs.

Works for organ and choir by Johann Sebastian Bach
Messe solennelle op. 16 for choir and two organs by Louis Vierne

Les Petits chanteurs du Mont-Royal
Federico Andreoni, choir organ
Vincent Boucher, grand organ
Andrew Gray, conductor
Julie Daoust, host