Ep 18. Pipe Dreams
- June 22, 2020
In the Independent Lens season 21 episode 18 titled "Pipe Dreams," viewers are taken on a journey through the cut-throat world of competitive organ playing. The episode centers around the Canadian International Organ Competition held in Montreal, Canada, where young musicians from around the world gather to compete for the prestigious title and the chance to launch their professional careers.
The episode begins by introducing several of the competitors and their personal stories, including Alcee Chriss III, a 20-year-old African American from Atlanta, Georgia, who grew up playing the organ at his church, and Krzysztof Urbanski, a 30-year-old Polish organist who has already garnered many accolades and is seen as one of the favorites in the competition.
As the competition heats up, tensions rise and the contestants face immense pressure to perform flawlessly. Viewers get an inside look at the rigorous preparation required to compete at such a high level, including hours of practice and mental training to overcome nerves and anxiety.
The organists not only have to contend with each other, but they must also navigate the complex and unwieldy instrument itself. The pipe organ is an enormous machine, with thousands of pipes and intricate mechanical systems, all of which require precise control and delicate touch.
Through interviews with the competitors, the episode explores the unique and diverse cultural traditions of organ playing, and how these styles are incorporated into the competition's repertoire. Viewers are also treated to breathtaking performances of some of the greatest organ music ever written, from Bach to Franck to Messiaen, showcasing the incredible range and versatility of the instrument.
But the competition is more than just a showcase of talent - it's also a platform for promoting the organ and its role in contemporary music. This episode presents a vivid portrait of a community of musicians devoted to keeping the organ alive and relevant, while pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the instrument.
As the competition reaches its climax, viewers are swept up in the emotions of the contestants as they play for the judges and the audience, hoping to earn the coveted title of "winner." But ultimately, the episode reminds us that success in music is not just about winning - it's about the passion and dedication required to master a craft, and the profound joy that comes from sharing that craft with others.
"Pipe Dreams" is a captivating and inspiring exploration of the world of competitive organ playing, featuring stunning performances, beautiful cinematography, and insightful interviews with some of the finest young musicians in the world. It's a must-see for anyone who loves music and wants a deeper understanding of what it takes to become a great musician.
