Jean Langlais
b. La Fontenelle, February 15, 1907
d. Paris, May 8, 1991
Biography
The contemporary French composer Jean Langlais became blind when only two
years old. Despite this handicap, he became one of the most respected
organists of the twentieth century. He studied at the National Institute for
the Young Blind with André Marchal. In 1930 he won first prize in organ at
the Paris Conservatory, studying under Marcel Dupré. At that same time
Langlais received composition lessons from Paul Dukas. In 1945 he became
organist of the great St. Clothilde in Paris, succeeding Frank and
Tournemire. He retained that position until he was eighty years old.
Langlais also taught for forty years at the National Institute for the Young
Blind, where he influenced many students.
Langlais wrote primarily for the organ, composing over 300 pieces. His works
are neo-classic, drawing on ideas from the Gregorian chant tradition and the
Catholic liturgy. His attractive melodies make his music accessible and
enjoyable.
Points of Interest
- Langlais received a composition prize in Paul Dukas' class of 1934. He
also received the "Grand Prix d'Exécution et Improvisation des Amis de
l'Orgue" (The Friends of the Organ Grand Prize for Playing and
Improvisation) in 1931 while studying with Charles Tournemire.
- Langlais gave over 300 recitals and innumerable master classes in the
United States.
Selected Works
- Trois paraphrases grégoriennes (Three Gregorian Paraphrases)
- Deux offertories pour tous les temps (Five meditations on the apocalypse)
- Hommage to Jean Philippe Rameau
- Hommage to Frescolbaldi
- Nine Pieces
- Suite Baroque
- Suite Française and
- Suite Medieval and
- Cinq Soleils
- Folkloric Suite