The Mystery of the Cathedrals

for wind quintet

About

The Mystery of the Cathedrals is a book by the French alchemist Fulcanelli. Published 100 years ago, in 1926, it puts forward the idea that a symbolic language is encoded in the architecture of cathedrals all over Europe, revealing the secrets of the alchemical Magnum Opus — for those with eyes to see.

Fulcanelli was reputed to have completed the Magnum Opus, i.e., the transmutation of lead into gold or the creation of the philosopher’s stone, in the presence of a chemist, two physicists, and a geologist. After this, Fulcanelli disappeared and was never seen or heard from again. To this day, the true identity of Fulcanelli remains unknown, but The Mystery of the Cathedrals has become a seminal work in contemporary alchemy.

Composition Year

2026

Duration

8′ 15″

Instrumentation

Flute

Oboe

Clarinet in B-flat

Horn in F

Bassoon