Prélude, Fugue et Variation, Op. 18, Op. 18

Franck's Prélude, Fugue et Variation (1862, from the Six Pièces) is perhaps the most perfect single piece he wrote for organ — a triptych of serene beauty whose three movements are connected by motivic relationships to create a satisfying unity. The Prélude's broad, quietly reverent melody unwinds over a gentle accompaniment, the Fugue is coolly contrapuntal without pedantry, and the Variation transforms the opening melody into a florid, improvisatory meditation of deep tenderness. The work also exists in a beloved piano-and-harmonium arrangement made by Harold Bauer, but the original organ version — written for Franck's own organ at Sainte-Clotilde in Paris — remains the authoritative text.