Organist Clara Gerdes Bartz plays Maurice Durufle's Scherzo, op. 2

Recorded on the Newberry Memorial Organ at Woolsey Hall, Yale University
E.M. Skinner, IV/197, 1928
Filmed March 13, 2021
Some background on the piece:
Maurice Durufle’s affinity for modal tone color and colorful, precise orchestration are strong features of his entire oeuvre. Published in 1926, his Scherzo begins in a deceptively tranquil fashion, with a rocking motive played on the voix celestes. This quickly morphs into the witty, lightly syncopated arabesque which serves as the piece’s principal theme and which returns from time to time in almost ritornello fashion. A slower, more lyrical section sets the stage for a dramatic fonds buildup and climax; the opening sparkly material then reprises briefly and the music settles down into the same dreamlike celeste texture from which it started, almost as if returning to sleep. Interestingly, Durufle returned to his opus 2 later in life, recasting elements of the main theme in his andante and scherzo, op. 8, for orchestra.
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[@steampipe1]

A wonderful performance on an iconic instrument from a young emerging star. Keep your eyes on Clara.

[@chrch4297]

Wonderfull playing with much feeling

[@photo3642u]

It is not for the faint hearted just to sit on the bench in front of this magnificent instrument, let alone play it! Clara performs with aplomb & bravery, well done.

[@juracpms7960]

Clara, you are wonderfull interpret organ music...greetings from Zagreb, Croatia!🙏

[@TheSoundman60]

Magical.

[@OrganNLou]

Fantastic performance on a fantastic organ!! BRAVO!!!!!

[@orglet]

Marvelous interpretation, Clara! Thank you.

[@pietvandijk5084]

this is organ music on his best

[@dum432]

Gracias!!!!! Thanks!!!!

[@fredericduret2641]

magnifique

[@VDL2012]

... doch nicht mit Maske !! ..........

[@TheSoundman60]

Magical.