Prelude in Eb Op. 41 No. 1

The Parisian concert organist and composer, Alexandre Guilmant, was born in Boulogne-sur-Mer to a family of organists and organ builders. Largely self-taught, he studied for a short period with Lemmens, the great Belgian organist. Although he held the position as organist at La Trinité in Paris, it was in the concert hall where he achieved fame. He was received by Queen Victoria at Windsor Castle and achieved many honours in the course of his career.

His twelve volume collection 'L'organiste pratique' is a treasure trove of pieces for all organists, the second volume published shortly before his mighty Organ Sonata No. 1. The opening 'Prelude in Eb' is a wonderfully serene and evocative piece registered for "tous les jeux des fonds". Guilmant shows his mastery of late romantic harmonies in this piece, skilfully modulating as far a Gb major before whisking the listener back to the home key in just two bars.

With its plethora of gorgeous strings and rich foundation stops, the 1924 Steinmeyer organ in the church of St Maria in Landau was an irresistible choice for this piece.