Musical Contribution - September 2025

Gigout was among the well-known organists of Paris in his time, although he never achieved the international fame of some of his colleagues. His heart lay more in teaching than in giving concerts. During the services at La Madeleine (as assistant to Saint-Saëns) and later as titular organist of St. Augustin, however, his improvisational skills certainly stood out.

Eugène also greatly enjoyed composing. Not so much large sonatas or symphonies, but he became especially known for his various editions of Pièces pour Orgue.

Among these is this “Song”: a beautiful melody featuring – of course – a prominent reed stop. For those playing on a three-manual organ, no additional registration is required, except perhaps coupling the Pedal to the G.O. from measures 32 to 42, since both hands are then on the G.O.

When playing on a two-manual organ, it is sufficient to replace the reed stop with an 8’ and 4’ flute.

This piece can rightly be called a “golden gem.”

Kind regards,
André