AGO Concert Repertoire & Programming 2

Question 1

Which Bach work is considered the pinnacle of Baroque organ polyphony and is frequently programmed as a recital finale?

Accepted Answer

Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor, BWV 582

Answer

The Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor, BWV 582, is widely regarded as Bach's contrapuntal masterpiece and is a standard recital closer.

Question 2

When programming a thematic organ recital around the concept of 'death and resurrection,' which Liszt work would be most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Fantasia and Fugue on 'Ad nos, ad salutarem undam'

Answer

The Fantasia and Fugue on 'Ad nos, ad salutarem undam' is based on a redemption theme from Meyerbeer's opera 'Le Prophète,' making it ideal for a death/resurrection program.

Question 3

A recitalist wants to include a significant French Romantic work that showcases the orchestral capabilities of a large Cavaillé-Coll organ. Which composer's output would be most idiomatic?

Accepted Answer

Charles-Marie Widor

Answer

Charles-Marie Widor's symphonies were specifically composed for the Cavaillé-Coll organs and fully exploit their orchestral tonal palette.

Question 4

Which 20th-century American composer wrote 'Ceremonial Music' and other works that have entered standard organ recital repertoire?

Accepted Answer

Leo Sowerby

Answer

Leo Sowerby was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American composer whose organ works, including 'Ceremonial Music,' are cornerstone 20th-century American repertoire.

Question 5

In programming a recital for a liturgical setting with a conservative congregation, which approach to contemporary music is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Include only tonal contemporary works or neo-Romantic pieces

Answer

Selecting tonal or neo-Romantic contemporary works bridges the gap between liturgical tradition and contemporary composition for conservative audiences.

(AGO) American Guild of Organists Certification Practice Test

(AGO) American Guild of Organists Certification Practice Test

AGO Concert Repertoire & Programming 2