24 Pieces: 10 - Toccata

French organist from Brittany who became blind at the age of three. Studied at the Institute for the Blind in Paris and then with Dupre and Tournemire. Eventually became organist at St. Clotilde, where Tournemire and Franck had been organists. Inspired by medieval works, gregorian chant and Breton folk songs.

This piece is an odd one. It is out of place in the book, following piece 5, not number 9! It is a short work in two sections, each played twice - first on the fonds of the Great then on the quieter fonds of the Choir. What Langlais was thinking calling it a toccata is anyone's guess. It neither uses a theme in the pedal nor is it very taxing for the fingers. It is no harder than a simple 4 part hymn or choral! So all in all an odd piece!

Hope you enjoy.
John