Vierne was born on 8 October 1870. He was born nearly blind and
showed an early aptitude for music. He was an assistant to the organist
Charles-Marie Widor at Saint-Sulpice in Paris, and since 1900 principal
organist at Notre-Dame de Paris. Vierne was considered one of the
greatest musical improvisers of his generation, although most of his
works were never written down.
His output for organ includes six
symphonies, "24 Fantasy Pieces" (which includes his famous "Carillon Of
Westminster"), and "24 Pieces In Free Style", among other works. There
are also several chamber works (sonatas for violin and cello, a piano
quintet and a string quartet for example), vocal and choral music, and
a symphony in A minor for orchestra.
Vierne suffered a stroke and died while giving his 1750th organ recital at Notre-Dame de Paris in June 1937.
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Chronology: Formative years (1870 - 1888) |
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Geschreven door Alex Bron
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Tuesday 04 September 2007 |
Born nearly blind, Vierne shows an exceptional talent for music at an early age. He is deeply impressed by the sound of the organ, and develops a love of music. With the encouragement of his uncle and others, he prepares for a career as a professional organist. His uncle and father both pass away before he is 17...
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Laatst geupdate op ( Tuesday 04 September 2007 )
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Chronology: Reputation and recognition (1889 - 1905) |
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Geschreven door Alex Bron
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Tuesday 04 September 2007 |
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Vierne enters César Franck's organ class at the Paris Conservatory, later becomes Widor's pupil and assistant, and teaching assistant to Guilmant at the Conservatory. He is named organist of Notre-Dame de Paris. Marriage and increasing fame. 1st and 2nd organ symphonies...
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Chronology: Difficult years (1906 - 1919) |
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Geschreven door Alex Bron
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Tuesday 04 September 2007 |
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Career setback after breaking his right leg and ankle. Divorces his wife on grounds of her unfaithfulness. Looses his mother. After the death of his friend Guilmant, he is displaced by rivalry at the Conservatory. His brother and son are killed in combat, as are many former students. Completely blinded by glaucoma. 3rd and 4th symphonies. Many works, all genres...
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Chronology: Final years (1920 - 1937) |
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Geschreven door Alex Bron
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Tuesday 04 September 2007 |
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Returning to Paris after 4 years, nearly ruined and completely blind, he must set about reestablishing his career. Successful tours abroad, including America. Recordings on 78 RPM. Completion of restoration and 'improvements' of the organ at Notre-Dame. 5th and 6th symphonies; 24 Fantasy Pieces. Also, numerous works in all genres...
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Biography