oa Behind the façade. Exploring the different layers of meaning in an organ performance

Although the organ frequently occupies a prominent place in an acoustic space, the player of the instrument is often barely visible. In this special concert and listening situation, questions are raised regarding certain (missed) expressive-visual opportunities. In this article, we explore how an analysis of the organist’s score-driven movements and performative experiences can lead to the development of a basic choreographic framework. Olivier Messiaen’s organ piece Subtilité des Corps Glorieux (1939) is our case study. The ultimate goal is to use that framework as a practical tool for interdisciplinary creation and communication.