Here, amidst these buildings, lies Rue Marcel Pehu. It is a modern passage with a story rooted in Lyon’s artistic heart. This pedestrian street, shielded by posts and barriers, wasn’t always here. Rue Marcel Pehu came into existence in 2002. It was part of a larger urban redevelopment project from the early 21st century.
The street bears the name of Marcel Pehu. He was a Lyon-born musician. Born in 1904, Marcel Pehu lived until 1974. He left an indelible mark on Lyon’s cultural landscape. Marcel Pehu was a composer. He taught at the Conservatoire National de Région. He also served as an organist at Saint François de Sales. Michel Loude even dedicated a book to him.
Imagine Marcel Pehu as a child. He was born into a family of notables. His father was an architect for the City of Lyon. An uncle was a founder of modern pediatrics. Marcel’s mother, a piano and singing teacher, recognized his exceptional gifts early on. At ten years old, a concert in Fribourg, Switzerland changed Marcel’s life. He vowed to become an organist.
Marcel Pehu studied with renowned masters. These included E. Trillat and V. Neuville in Lyon. He then went to Paris to work with Cortot, Dukas, and Dupré. By twenty-three, Marcel Pehu held his first organist position. It was at the Saint-Sacrement in Lyon. He stayed there for fourteen years.
Marcel Pèhu’s compositions are vast. They include ninety-nine partitions. These encompassed pieces for piano, various instruments and choirs. There was also a modal mass and three symphonies. His work is played worldwide. One critic described Marcel Pehu as a complete musician.
In 1941, Marcel Pehu moved to Saint-François de Sales. He played the Cavaillé-Coll organ there. This instrument was built at the request of Ch. M. Widor. Marcel Pehu remained there for thirty-three years. He passed away after fulfilling his duties at Saint-François.
Rue Marcel Pehu itself is primarily residential. The architecture is consistent. Buildings are five stories. They feature yellow hues, rounded balconies, and elongated windows. Zinc roofs give them a distinct character. One can walk between the fences and bushes. These shield ground-floor gardens.
Marcel Pehu was known for his strong personality. He was also known for his dedication to music. He loved wordplay and humor. This made him an engaging person. Marcel Pehu also had a passion for railways. He even composed a piece called “Poème du Rail”.
Though a modern creation, Rue Marcel Pehu connects us. It connects us to a legacy of musical dedication. It embodies Lyon’s rich cultural history. As you walk this street, remember Marcel Pehu. His music still echoes in Lyon’s heart.