Gillian Weir Essentials

Dame Gillian Weir's organ playing is almost inseparable from the work of the French composer Olivier Messiaen. Hear why she is considered the world authority on his work—and why she's considered the queen of the keyboard—on this playlist that highlights the intensity, colour and joy of the organ in full flight. Messiaen's work, which was rhythmically and melodically complex, meets its perfect match in the nimble fingers and passionate playing of Weir. As you listen, try to remind yourself that just two hands are creating this whirlwind of sounds.