Description
Reimagined in boldly contrasting settings, the Gregorian chant for Epiphany Alleluia: vidimus stellam shines radiantly in Kristina Arakelyan’s Star Fantasy, one of twelve new plainsong-derived organ pieces by women composers commissioned for Anna Lapwood’s award-winning anthology Gregoriana (Stainer & Bell, ref. H506). The influence of the great French organist–composer Olivier Messiaen is acknowledged in this piece; in particular, his delight in the harmony of F sharp major with an added sixth as a symbol of joy, which – both chord and rapture – are likewise integral to the Star Fantasy. The pattern of the piece follows a reverse-variation form, commencing with an abridged, hushed version of the chant as if from afar, and returning to it – but now in exultation and splendour – at the conclusion. In this powerfully cumulative work, the player will encounter a variety of textures and playing techniques too, in the manner of an étude, and offering invaluable new repertoire for study.
