KU professor to perform at Notre-Dame Cathedral

Dr. James Higdon, Professor of Organ at the University of Kansas School of Music, will present a recital at the famed Cathédrale Notre-Dame in Paris on October 21, 2025. The program celebrates the musical ties between France and America, featuring works by both American and French composers.

Highlights include Leo Sowerby’s Comes Autumn Time—once performed by Marcel Dupré—and a transcription of Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings. Also featured is Louis Robillard’s striking transcription of Fauré’s Pelléas et Mélisande, as well as two works by Jehan Alain that honor his legacy and that of his sister, Marie-Claire Alain, a key figure in training generations of American organists.

The recital also includes a movement from Olivier Messiaen’s Méditations sur le Mystère de la Sainte Trinité, premiered by the composer himself in Washington, D.C. The program concludes with two lesser-known works by Marcel Dupré—Lamento and the Toccata from his Deuxième Symphonie.

This performance represents a prestigious international appearance by one of KU’s distinguished faculty members and reflects the School’s ongoing commitment to global artistic exchange.

Dr. Higdon will preview the recital with a performance at Bales Organ Recital Hall on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.