Epithalame (Wedding Hymn), Op. 48, No. 7

Théodore-César Salomé (20 January 1834 – 26 July 1896) was born in Paris. He completed all of his musical studies at the Conservatoire de Paris, under the tutelage of François Bazin for harmony and accompaniment, and François Benoist for organ. He won several honorable awards, including: second prize in harmony (1855), second prize in organ and in harmony (1856), second and third prize in harmony and organ (1857), and second prize in harmony (1859). His cantata Atala was awarded the premier Second Grand Prix of the Prix de Rome in 1861. In the same year Théodore Dubois was awarded the first grand prize, and Eugène Anthiome and Titus Constantin won the deuxième Second Grand Prix. He was highly regarded, and served as "Choir Organist" at La Trinité in Paris for many
years.

I recall that Salomé was recommended for many major jobs, but for some reason, probably political, he never "got the big one," remaining as the "assistant" at La Trinité for the bulk of his career.

Rather than try to squeeze in some interesting facts, I'll give the link, so you can read the whole story: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Théodore_Salomé

"Epithalame" is the seventh piece in "Dix pièces pour orgue, Op. 48". It is dedicated: "à Filippo Cappoci".

Capocci (1840-1911) was born in Rome and organist of St. John Lateran. He was widely admired as a performer and had a style similar to that of Alexandre Guilmant. He was also a significant composer of music for the organ.

"Epithalame" is a wild piece with "something for everyone" in it. From the formal march of the opening, to the melodic "Ave maria section," to the tumultuous conclusion, I promise this will sweep you away, if you let it! :-)

More interesting info about what an "Epithalame" is all about in the 1st comment. Warning - adults only!

The score is attached below, as well as photos of Salomé, one of Filippo Cappoci,
some of St. John Lateran, and a period picture of La Trinité in Paris.

"Minuetto, Op 48, No. 8" coming ASAP!