Charles-Marie Jean Albert Widor (February 21, 1844 -- March 12, 1937) was a French organist, composer and teacher, and was at the forefront of a revival in French organ music in the late 1800's. The organ symphonies are his most significant contribution to the organ repertoire, and came about partly due to the emergence of the symphonic style of organ building typified by the instruments of Cavaille-Coll, with their orchestral voicing and warmer sound. Widor's symphonies can be divided into three groups. The first four symphonies comprise Op. 13 (1872) and are more properly termed "suites" (Widor himself called them "collections".) This book contains the first five of the Organ Symphonies. Included in this book is the famous Toccata from the Symphony No. 5. This beautiful volume is an essential part of the organist's library of romantic organ literature.

The greatest French organist of his day, Widor (1844–1937) composed 10 organ "symphonies" — actually solo compositions usually consisting of 6 or 7 short movements, that treat the organ as a kind of self-contained orchestra. Series I includes Symphonies Nos. 1–4, Op. 13 and Symphonie No. 5, Op. 42. Frequently performed today. Glossary of French terms.

This collection features church and concert works for the organ and includes such popular pieces as Bach's "Toccata" and "Fugue in D Minor" andthe "Toccata" from Charles-Marie Widor's 5th Organ Symphony."

Widor's ancestry, musical education, and heritage (1844-63) -- The first creative period (1864-79) -- The years of mastery (1880-94) -- The twilight of Widor's compositional career (1895-1909) -- Mr. Widor, member of the Institute of France (1910-37) -- Appendixes. 1. Published literary works. 2. List of musical works. 3. A cross-section of musicians during Widor's life. 4. Chronology

The collection of 59 short works known as "L'Organiste" was written by Cesar Franck in 1889 and 1890 for the harmonium and is most often played on organ. This score is an exact reprint of the original edition published by Enoch (Paris) in 1892.

Specially arranged for organ but playable on any keyboard instrument, this collection features such beloved hymns as A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, Amazing Grace, and more. Features lay-flat sewn binding.