Turangalîla-Symphony by Messiaen performed by the OSR, Bertrand de Billy (conductor), Kit Armstrong (piano) and Cécile Lartigau (ondes Martenot)

Bertrand de Billy conductor
Kit Armstrong piano
Cécile Lartigau ondes Martenot

Olivier Messiaen
Turangalîla-Symphony for piano, ondes Martenot and large orchestra

The OSR first performed Olivier Messiaen’s Turangalîla-Symphonie in a memorable concert in 1981, conducted by Horst Stein and the composer himself attending all rehearsals – a significant event then, this symphonic gem remains an extraordinary experience. This grand love song unfolds in ten movements, featuring a sizeable ensemble enhanced with the piano and ondes Martenot. Although labelled a symphony, it’s more like a sinfonia concertante involving all sections of the orchestra, putting a spotlight on the piano, with its challenging part specially tailored for Messiaen’s wife, Yvonne Loriod. The vibrant composition dazzles with a myriad of colors, drawing influence from the oriental gamelans that fueled Messiaen’s creativity. The universal mysticism of Messiaen reaches its zenith in this masterpiece.