Looking for, and finding, swing and jazz influences throughout organ literature

Today, many composers for organ have been influenced by non-classical traditions. However, even in Bach’s time, we can find works that give a nod to the groove that Duke Ellington referred to in his famous quote. From jazzy fugue themes of the Baroque, to the then-revolutionary jazz-influenced riffs and rhythms used by French composers in the early 20th century, to late 20th century American works which are heavily influenced by the idiom, jazz can be found in many places, once we start to look.

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Works to be performed on the “It Don’t Mean a Thing…” program include:

J. S. Bach, Gigue Fugue
D. Buxtehude, Praeludium in C major, BuxWV 136
O. Messiaen, Joie et Clarte des corps glorieux from Les Corps Glorieux
J. Alain, Deux Dances a Agni Yavishta
W. Albright, Sweet Sixteenths: concert rag for organ
W. Bolcom, Free Fantasia on “O Zion, Haste” and “How Firm a Foundation”

Program offered from fall 2012 through spring 2013.