‘Nativité’ - ‘Symphonie-Passion’ opus 23

The second movement from Dupré’s ‘Symphonie-Passion’ opus 23 begins with a pastorale rocking theme played on Hautbois and Flûte Harmonique. Chromaticism gives a feel of cold winter weather. The Maji make an entrance in procession, becoming louder and increasingly present as they finally arrive to meet the Holy Family and present their gifts. The scene is depicted with gentle strings and the entry of the familiar Christmas melody ‘Adeste Fidelis’ is clothed in beautiful harmonies. Peace rests on the scene as Mary rocks the cradle and a distant fanfare calls out, maybe a watchman or military signal. A clock bell sounds the hour, here played on a solo Nazard. Listeners will still hear the fundamental 8’ tone, even though it is not there – a technique used by Jehan Alain in his ‘Le jardin suspendu’.