César Franck - Chorale No. 2 in b minor | pf. Maxmilián Šumbera

Live recording from a concert in June 2026 at the Cathedral of Saint Wenceslas in Olomouc, Czech Republic. César Franck (1822–1890) was a French composer, organist, and teacher, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the French Romantic school. As organist at Basilique Sainte-Clotilde for over thirty years, he elevated the art of organ improvisation and inspired generations of French organists and composers. His music is distinguished by its rich chromatic harmony, expansive architecture, and the use of cyclic form, in which musical themes reappear and evolve throughout a work. The Three Chorales for Organ, composed in 1890 during the final months of his life, are considered the culmination of his organ output. Chorale No. 2 in B minor combines lyricism with dramatic intensity, unfolding as a musical journey that reflects both the grandeur of the French symphonic organ tradition and Franck's profound spiritual vision. Despite its title, Chorale No. 2 is not based on an existing chorale melody. Franck composed the melody himself and develops it throughout the entire work. I apologize for the small mistakes - I was a little nervous during the performance. Nevertheless, I think it is still a worthwhile performance, so I decided to share it. #organmusic #liveperformance #classicalmusic #cesarfranck #romanticmusic #interpretation