Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Germany

Birth

:

November 3, 1587 in Halle, Germany

Death

:

March 24, 1654 in Halle, Germany

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Orchestral

 

Samuel Scheidt was a German composer and organist who lived during the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. He was born on November 3, 1587, in Halle, Germany, to a family of musicians. His father, Heinrich Scheidt, was a town musician, and his older brother, Gottfried Scheidt, was also a composer and organist. Samuel Scheidt began his musical education at a young age, studying with his father and brother. He later studied with Johann Eccard, a prominent composer and conductor in Berlin. In 1603, Scheidt became the organist at the Moritzkirche in Halle, where he remained for the rest of his life. Scheidt's early works were influenced by the music of his predecessors, such as Johann Sebastian Bach and Heinrich Schütz. However, he soon developed his own style, which was characterized by its use of complex counterpoint and rich harmonies. One of Scheidt's most famous works is his collection of keyboard music, Tabulatura Nova. This collection, which was published in 1624, contains 48 pieces for organ and harpsichord. The pieces are divided into three sections: the first section contains preludes and toccatas, the second section contains chorale settings, and the third section contains dances and variations. Another notable work by Scheidt is his collection of sacred vocal music, Cantiones Sacrae. This collection, which was published in 1620, contains 20 motets for four to eight voices. The motets are based on biblical texts and are characterized by their rich harmonies and expressive melodies. Scheidt also wrote a number of instrumental works, including his collection of instrumental music, Ludi Musici. This collection, which was published in 1621, contains a variety of pieces for various instruments, including violins, cornets, and trombones. The pieces are characterized by their lively rhythms and intricate counterpoint. In addition to his work as a composer, Scheidt was also a respected organist and teacher. He taught many students, including his own son, Heinrich Scheidemann, who went on to become a prominent organist and composer in his own right. Scheidt died on March 24, 1654, in Halle, Germany. His legacy as a composer and organist has continued to influence musicians to this day, and his works are still performed and studied by musicians around the world.

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