The second in the series of the Pro-Cathedral's Wednesday lunchtime organ recitals was given by one of the cathedral's former organ scholars, John O'Keefe. His programme in this French-flavoured series was devoted to two works each by Tournemire (d. 1939) and his pupil, Durufle (d. 1986).

These musicians specialised in plainsong-based improvisation and composition rather than the character-piece and symphonic work exemplified by the more famous Widor and Vierne.

They nevertheless exemplify a national tradition and repertoire which is as continuous as it is distinctive.

Any Irish or British organist over 40 must have noticed how this repertoire has risen in esteem in this part of the world. And anyone who has heard such now-deceased masters of the tradition as Dupre and Langlais can only be struck by the difference between their performance styles and those which prevail now.

John O'Keefe's playing typified the change. In all four works by Tournemire and Durufle, deft articulation produced clarity in complex textures, rhythmic energy was immediate and the instrument's colours were used impressively.

Music which originated in flamboyant, generalised gesture - in stylistically concentrated personal expression - was being viewed objectively, from a bit of a distance.

The change entails loss, especially as detail now seems more important than that continuous, restlessly shifting drama which one found in Durufle and his contemporaries. But this music's worth is shown by its ability to endure such change.

Michael Quinn plays at the Pro-Cathedral next Wednesday at 1.15 p.m.