1887 Willis organ at Truro Cathedral, England, UK

Before the age of intercontinental air travel, he travelled thousands of miles touring the world as a virtuoso recitalist. The friendly and fatherly Alexander Guilmant also taught at the Paris Conservatory and, along with his compatriots Franck and Widor, revolutionized the art of the organ in 19th century France. Guilmant’s repertoire covered four centuries, and his own compositions number in the hundreds, embracing equally sweet sentiment, intimate charm, and the glory and passion that only organ music can deliver. We’ll offer you a taste of the best, from Pastorales to Caprices, Marches to Madrigals, Sonatas to Symphonies. With an international reputation and an exceptional repertoire, Alexander Guilmant ranks high on the list of famous French organists, and you’ll know why when you listen to his music. It’s Alexandre the Great, this week on Pipedreams.

The King of Instruments enjoys a long and proud tradition. This week we’ll celebrate this heritage with instruments in all of the major European countries where the art of the organ was born and fostered. The peripatetic Charles Burney, who wrote much about organs and organists encountered during his famous travels, contributes a tune to our medley as do Domenico Scarlatti, Vicente Hervas, Michel Corrette, and Georg Böhm. Everything old IS new again as we listen to historic instruments playing German, French, English, Italian, and Spanish music, all with perfect accent, the way it was meant to be. We honor tradition as the voices from these old pipes reveal the Wisdom of the Ages.

…composers and performers from the global community offer up exotic musical gifts for this season of the Nativity.

…celebrate the springtime festival of rebirth with anthems ancient and modern and sonorous solos old and new.

…celebratory and contemplative scores explore the energy of the springtime festival of rebirth.

…glorious sounds resound in historic buildings, testament to the richness of a centuries-old musical art.

…a select survey of some sacred music written by one of the 20th century’s most honored composers, Benjamin Britten, on the hundredth anniversary of his birth.

…choirs and organists share a bountiful repertoire drawn from many years of the British holiday tradition.

…sometimes lofty, sometimes light-hearted, this music either was inspired by and/or performed in an awesome ambience.

…an international buffet of tasty carols and instrumental solos for Christmas time.

…music made in time of war, in reflection on war, and in commemoration of the centenary of the November 11, 1918 Armistice.

…more music made in time of war, in reflection on war, and in commemoration of the centenary of the November 11, 1918 Armistice.

…for June brides and others, a program of wedding music which includes some of what you'd expect and much than you wouldn't.

A visit with British organist David Briggs, who talks about his career and plays instruments in England and Minnesota.