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Raymond Daveluy
Fugue (from Organ Sonata No4 - 1984)
Raymond Daveluy’s Fourth Sonata
introduces another period in the creative career of the composer:
having, at this time, been Titular Organist at St. Joseph’s
Oratory (Montreal) for almost twenty-five years, and having written
his Organ Concerto, the composer assumes a more orchestral-style,
more appropriate for the larger-sized organ. Written in 1984, premiered
by Daveluy himself at the Beckerath organ of St. Joseph’s Oratory
in the summer 2004, this work is dedicated to Rachel Laurin and published
by “Les Éditions Lucarel” (Montreal, Qc. Canada).
The double fugue of the third movement recalls the fugue of the previous
sonata, only in larger dimensions. Moreover, what makes it distinctive
is that the first subject of this “polyphonic fresco”
is the principal theme of the whole sonata, heard from the beginning
of the Fantaisie (1stmvt). Played “molto energico” as
requested by the composer, the theme, presented in quarter notes,
receives a rhythmical ending transmitted to each part throughout this
first fugue, thus conveying a generalised climate of sarcasm. The
second subject, as energetic as the first, stands in contrast being
light and fresh. In addition, its rhythmical and melodic features
make this theme easy to remember, so listeners may follow with interest
the return of the first subject, superimposed on the second, in inverted
canon or in its original form. With its erudite compositional style,
this “super-fugue” confirms once more the breadth and
powerful inspiration of the artist, not to mention his outstanding
craftsmanship. The very essence of organ music is found in this work,
and the virtuosity required for its performance provides the organist
with the satisfaction of a challenge successfully taken up!
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