A life full of music and faith
Montserrat Torrent, a renowned organist, recently celebrated her 98th birthday with the same energy that has characterized her throughout her life. Her passion for her organ has remained intact, becoming an inexhaustible source of joy and fulfillment for her.
The organ, an instrument of emotions
For Montserrat Torrent, playing the organ is an experience that transcends the earthly. The instrument’s ability to produce three different sounds simultaneously makes it a unique means of expressing a wide range of emotions.
Organ music, with its deep spiritual resonance, has captivated countless people throughout history. The majesty of the sound, echoing through cathedrals and auditoriums, evokes a feeling of transcendence and connection with the divine.
However, Montserrat Torrent regrets that some organists resort to banal pieces to attract a wider audience. She believes this practice distorts the true nature of the organ and distances listeners from the spiritual experience it should provide.
Johann Sebastian Bach, a master of harmony
Among the composers that Montserrat Torrent most admires, Johann Sebastian Bach stands out. For her, Bach is the undisputed master of organ music, whose compositions reach levels of perfection that seem inspired by the hand of God.
Torrent’s admiration for Bach also extends to his ability to express deep emotions through music. Bach’s works, with their intricate harmony and masterful counterpoint, invite listeners on an introspective journey, awakening feelings of joy, sadness and wonder.
A dedicated teacher
Throughout her long career, Montserrat Torrent has trained numerous students who are today outstanding organists. For her, teaching is an act of generosity and dedication, in which the teacher shares his knowledge and passion with his disciples.
Torrent believes that a good teacher must guide his students to the point where they can no longer teach him anything. This moment, in which the student surpasses the teacher, is a source of immense satisfaction and pride for her.
Faith as a guide
The Christian faith has been a fundamental pillar in the life of Montserrat Torrent. She defines herself as a devout Christian, and her music is deeply infused with spirituality.
For Torrent, music is a means to connect with the divine and express his gratitude for the gift of life. She believes that God has given her the energy and passion to continue playing and teaching, and she trusts in his mercy and goodness for the afterlife.
The organ in Catalonia: a legacy of excellence
Montserrat Torrent recognizes the high level of current Catalan organists. She highlights the importance of building and maintaining quality organs to encourage the development of new talent and preserve Catalonia’s rich musical legacy.
The organist expresses her desire to see the organ of the Sant Felip Neri Oratory in Barcelona completed, a project that she has been promoting for years. This instrument, a synthesis of the baroque and Iberian organ, would allow a wide repertoire to be performed and would be a testimony to the vitality of organ music in Catalonia.
A life dedicated to art and spirit
At 98 years old, Montserrat Torrent continues to inspire those around her with her tireless passion for music and her deep faith. Her life is a testament to the transformative power of art and spirituality, and her legacy will continue to enrich the world of organ music for generations to come.