Fascinating Works by Jeanne Demessieux: A Musical Feast at Westminster Abbey
Dive into the riveting compositions of Jeanne Demessieux, brought to life in a heart-stirring performance by Robert Quinney, James O'Donnell, and The Choir Of Westminster Abbey. Held within the hallowed halls of the historic Westminster Abbey, attendees will be treated to a grand feast of musical excerpts from the illustrious Feast of St. Edward, commemorating one of the best-known saints of the English Church.
Jeanne Demessieux: Her Landmark "Te Deum" at Westminster Abbey
Jeanne Demessieux (1921–1968) was a distinguished French organist, pianist, composer, and teacher, celebrated for both her virtuosic performances and her innovative compositions for the organ. Among her most notable works is the "Te Deum," Op. 11, a staple of the modern French organ repertoire.
On the album "The Feast of St Edward at Westminster Abbey," recorded by The Choir of Westminster Abbey with Robert Quinney (organ) and under the direction of James O'Donnell, Demessieux's "Te Deum" is featured as a climactic conclusion to the programme. The recording presents a reconstruction of Matins, Eucharist, and Evensong as they would be celebrated on the Feast of St Edward (13 October), a day of great liturgical and historical significance at Westminster Abbey.
Demessieux's "Te Deum" stands out as the organ solo work on this album, highlighting her deep understanding of the instrument's power and color. With its grand, virtuosic writing and vibrant use of organ timbres, the piece provides a rousing and fitting finale to the Abbey's musical celebration of its royal saint. The inclusion of her work in such a context underscores Demessieux's reputation as one of the 20th century's preeminent organ composers.
A Soul-Stirring Performance
Come witness a rare musical performance where Demessieux's profound compositions merge with the pristine acoustics of the Westminster Abbey, creating a soul-stirring ambience that imbues each note with a deep spiritual resonance. Accompanied by the Westminster Abbey Choir’s harmonious voices, under the expert direction of Robert Quinney and James O'Donnell, prepare for an evening where transcendental music and historical grandeur intertwine, resulting in an unforgettable, sensory feast. Don't miss out on this STAGE+ special presentation of fascinating works by Jeanne Demessieux — a musical spectacle you'll cherish for a lifetime!