Search - Francis Poulenc, Camille Saint-Saens, Jean Martinon :: Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3 'Organ'; Poulenc: Organ Concerto

The Glory That Was France

Avid Reader | Franklin, Tn | 04/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is especially appreciated as a reminder of the prominent position France once held in the musical and artistic world as well as the international arena. I mean, how much more French could you get - Camille Saint-Saens, Francis Poulenc and Marie-Claire Alain - three musical giants.



This is really a wonderful album, deeply felt, the Gallic flavor quite intense. It is NOT just an organ CD: "Le Rouet D'Omphale" and "Danse Macabre" are included as well as the two signature works - the Third Symphony by Saint-Saens and the Concerto for Organ in G Minor by Poulenc. In an ironic turn, the (in my opinion) inferior Saint-Saens has triumphed in the public mind over the far superior Poulenc. When one considers the treatment of the organ and orchestra, there is no contest. Also, the work by Poulenc had a striking originality - from the gargantuan theme to the "merry go round" finale (what a stroke of genius).



Although the Third Symphony pales slightly by comparison, Alain gives her 110% as she does on all her recordings. She has stated in the past that she has no national preference but undeniably she arises to the occasion when performing Widor, Vierne, Franck or any works by her own famous relatives. This CD is an easy five star. PLEASE - if you want to hear the organ in all its glory (it's the famous Saint Sulpice), purchase GREAT TOCCATAS with Ms. Alain - a stunning work of incredible virtuosity."

Outstanding in every way

HB | Fort Mill, SC | 05/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Jean Martinon was a superior conductor, especially in his native French repertoire. This CD has excellent sound, great orchestral playing and highly musical interpretations. Everything sounds just right. If you buy this CD, program it to end with the symphony. It will give you 71 minutes of pure, musical pleasure."

THE Performance of this Symphony

Don M. Stalter | Terrebonne, OR | 05/19/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The original recording was made in 1966. Of course it lacks the super-hi fidelity of todays DDD recordings, however, the performance of Marie Clair Alain and that of conductor Jean Martinon by far overshadows the shortcomings of fidelity. I have three other performances of this work and have heard actually dozens more and this disc tops them all. It was like hearing the great Symphony for the first time."