Historic Organs of Switzerland – A presentation by E. Power Biggs (MH 31/1975)

MUSICA HELVETICA (MH 31/1975) E. Power Biggs swissmusic

Distinguished organist, the late E. Power Biggs (1906-1977) personally presents and performs on four historic organs in Switzerland.

He is heard at those at the Valère Cathedral (built in 1390 being the oldest playable organ in the world), the Church of Sitzberg (built from 1741-43), the Cathedral Church of Arlesheim (built in 1761) and the Church of Castle San Pietro (built in 1882).

Musical content

1. Anonymus (12th century): Hymn to St Magnus
Canton Valais – Valère Cathedral, Sion
2. From Robertsbridge Codex: Organ Estampie (c. 1325)
Canton Valais – Valère Cathedral, Sion
3. J.S. Bach: In Dulci Jubilo, BWV 751 (Choral Prelude)
Canton Zurich – The Church of Sitzberg (Played with the organ “Zimbelstern”)
4. Joanambrosio Dalza: Pavana Venetiana (c. 1508)
Canton Ticino – The Church of Castel San Pietro (above Mendrisio)
5. Louis Nicolas Clérambault (1676-1749): Trumpet in Dialogue. From “Premier Livre d’Orgue”
Canton Basel-Land – Cathedral Church of Arlesheim
6. François Couperin (1668-1733): Fugue on the Kyrie. From “Messe Solenelle”
Canton Basel-Land – Cathedral Church of Arlesheim
7. Henry Purcell: Chaconne in F major
Canton Zurich – The Church of Sitzberg
8. Perotinus (c. 1160-1220): Huic main – Hec dies. Deo confitemin – Domino (Motets for Hec dies)
Canton Valais – Valère Cathedral, Sion

E. Power Biggs, various organs

Production information

Musica Helvetica MH 31. Historic Organs of Switzerland. Presented by E. Power Biggs. Produced 1975/1980 for SBC / SRI by Lance Tschannen.

Background information

Switzerland is a small alpine nation shaped and influenced by great cultural cross-currents that have swept through Europe over centuries. Out of elements of diversity, the people of this country have forged a distinctly Swiss identity. And music is one of its most eloquent expressions. “Musica Helvetica” explores different facets of music in Switzerland from its earliest beginnings to the latest works of modern Swiss composers, from folk music to rock and jazz. This historical series span the years 1973 to 1998. These recordings are not available.