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[Messiaen’s Piano Works] Exquisite gems born from an extraordinary sense of color
Olivier Messiaen, born in 1908 in Avignon, France, was active as a composer, organist, pianist, and music educator.
He also had facets of a theologian and an ornithologist, and his extraordinary passion for birds is vividly reflected in his works.
Moreover, he possessed synesthesia—the ability to associate sounds with colors and patterns—and is said to have completed his pieces by writing those associations directly into the score in his distinctive style.
In this article, we introduce some of Messiaen’s works that are frequently performed, focusing on solo piano pieces and compositions that include piano.
[Messiaen’s Piano Pieces] Gem-like Works Born of an Exceptional Sense of Color (1–10)
Eight Preludes No. 1 “Dove”Olivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, one of the defining French composers of the 20th century, is known for music that explores mystical and religious themes.
Immersed in music from an early age, he entered the Paris Conservatory at 11.
The first piece of his Eight Preludes, “La colombe” (The Dove)—which is also his first piano work—showcases the young composer’s developing technique and his exploration of musical language.
This miniature conveys a sense of peace and calm, marked by distinctive harmonic progressions using modes of limited transposition.
It is quintessential Messiaen, weaving natural and religious symbolism into the music.
With its depth of musicality yet relatively approachable technical demands, it is a recommended introduction for those encountering Messiaen’s works for the first time.
20 Gazes Upon the Infant Jesus, No. 11: The Virgin’s First Holy CommunionOlivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, a leading 20th-century French composer, is known for works that explore mystical and religious themes.
His music is characterized by complex rhythms, rich timbres, and distinctive harmonies.
The piano suite Vingt regards sur l’Enfant-Jésus (Twenty Contemplations on the Infant Jesus), composed in 1944, is a gem that reflects his profound sense of spirituality and love of nature.
The 11th piece, Première communion de la Vierge (The Virgin’s First Communion), overflows with Messiaen’s characteristic mystical beauty, weaving the theme of God while evoking birdsong.
Regardless of one’s faith, it is widely cherished as a moving work that invites deep introspection.
Phantom of AmenOlivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, a French composer who represents the 20th century, is known for his distinctive musical style.
His music is characterized by complex rhythms, rich timbres, and unique harmonies, exploring mystical and religious themes.
Composed in 1943, Visions de l’Amen is one of his major works for two pianos.
The piece consists of seven movements, each expressing a different subject based on the word “Amen.” Powerfully depicting profound themes such as creation, the stars, and the suffering of Jesus, this work is recommended not only for those who wish to experience Messiaen’s musical world but also for anyone interested in works with strong religious elements.
Exotic BirdsOlivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, a representative composer of 20th-century France, possessed a rare talent that combined a mystical religious outlook, a deep love for birds, and a unique sense of color.
One of his major works, the piano cycle “Oiseaux exotiques” (“Exotic Birds”), is a large-scale composition of thirteen pieces that faithfully recreates the songs of birds from various regions of France, musically depicting their individual behaviors and habitats.
Its fantastical sonic world—woven from complex rhythms and rich harmonies—invites listeners into a nature scene brimming with exotic atmosphere.
With many outstanding performances by superb pianists, this piece is highly recommended for anyone interested in contemporary music.
Four Rhythmic Etudes No. 1: “The Island of Fire I”Olivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, a leading 20th-century composer who experienced synesthesia and associated sounds with colors, is known for his unique compositional style linking sound and color.
In No.
1, “Île de feu I,” from Études de rythme, the intertwining of complex rhythms and timbres unfolds a mysterious and powerful musical world.
The piece demands a performance that combines bold expression with delicate touch, and it is one I highly recommend to advanced players familiar with contemporary music.
Eight Preludes No. 8 “Reflections in the Wind”Olivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, a French composer who epitomizes the 20th century, is known for his distinctive style.
The eighth piece from his early collection Eight Preludes, “Reflections in the Wind,” shows the influence of Claude Debussy while revealing an original fusion of color and sound.
In the brief storm-like passages that frame the work, alternations of orange and green with black speckles appear; in the central section, shades of blue and orange illuminate a beautiful melodic line.
Please enjoy this work—an embodiment of the young Messiaen’s sensibility—in vividly colored sonorities.
A Little Piece before the Grave of Paul DukasOlivier Messiaen
Olivier Messiaen, a leading French composer of the 20th century, created music born of his deep Catholic faith and fascination with birdsong.
His compositions are known for a highly complex and innovative approach to rhythm, harmony, and melody.
Among them, his piano piece “Piece for the Tomb of Paul Dukas,” written in memory of his beloved mentor Paul Dukas, conveys profound respect and gratitude to his teacher.
Evoking a static, solemn atmosphere like falling light in shades of orange, white, and gold, this work is a highly recommended piece for anyone wishing to explore the depths of Messiaen’s music.