Olivier Messiaen, one of the most influential organ composers of the 20th century, wrote La Nativité du Seigneur in 1935 at the age of 27. It is a set of nine meditations on aspects of the narrative of Christ’s birth, from the mystery of the Word made flesh to the mirth of the shepherds and the awe of the Magi.

The music accordingly ranges from the solemn to the jubilant, using Messiaen’s characteristic modal harmonies, and wonderfully explores the range of sound colours available on the organ.

Messiaen’s Christmas meditations will be played by the Sub-Organist Sachin Gunga, with prefatory scripture passages read in French by Hannah Gunga.

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