Feliks Nowowiejski's "Complete Organ Symphonies Vol. 1" is a monumental collection of the composer's first nine organ symphonies, performed by the renowned organist Rudolf Innig. Released on April 1, 1998, under the label Musikproduktion Dabringhaus und Grimm, this three-CD set spans an impressive three hours and forty-five minutes of grand and intricate compositions.
Nowowiejski, a Polish composer, showcases his mastery of the organ in these symphonies, each offering a unique blend of dramatic intensity, lyrical beauty, and technical brilliance. The symphonies range from the powerful and majestic to the introspective and pastoral, demonstrating Nowowiejski's versatility and depth as a composer.
The album begins with the Symphony No. 1 in A Minor, characterized by its dramatic opening and lively allegro, followed by the tender and expressive Andante cantabile. The Symphony No. 2 in G Minor introduces a festive prelude and a deeply moving adagio, culminating in a dynamic finale with a recitative and fugue. The Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, subtitled "Lourdes," features a toccata, a pastoral recitative, and a reflective epilogue, evoking the spiritual atmosphere of the famous pilgrimage site.
The Symphony No. 4 in D Minor offers a contemplative adagio leading into an allegro moderato, followed by a deeply expressive andante. The Symphony No. 5 in E Minor presents a serious allegro, a serene andante, and a powerful passacaglia. The Symphony No. 6 in A Minor includes a prelude, a playful intermezzo, a solemn lento, and a concluding toccata and fugue. The Symphony No. 7 in A Major, "Disputa," features a festive prelude, an allegretto intermezzo, and a theme with variations. The album concludes with the Symphony No. 8 in C Major, "Mors mea - Funeralia mea," and the Symphony No. 9 in F Minor, both of which showcase Nowowiejski's ability to convey profound emotions through the organ.
This collection is a testament to Nowowiejski's contributions to the organ symphony genre and offers a rich and rewarding listening experience for enthusiasts of classical and organ music. Rudolf Innig's skillful interpretation and the high-quality recording make this album a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.
