The lecture recital was given on November 20, 1979. The final movement of Widor's Symphonie Gothique, opus 70, the first movement of Widor's Symphonie Romane, opus 73, and the first movement of Dupré's Symphonie-Passion, opus 23 were performed following a lecture on Gregorian Chant in the organ symphonies of Widor and Dupré. The lecture included a brief historical discussion of the decline of organ literature following the French Classical School, the development of the Modern French Organ School beginning with the establishment of the organ department at the Paris Conservatory, the revival of plainsong and the establishment of the School of Solesmes, and the influence of César Franck and the organ symphony. The main body of the lecture included biographical sketches of Widor and Dupré, a discussion of the general characteristics of their organ symphonies, with the emphasis upon those movements specifically employing the use of Gregorian chant.