Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

February 22, 1840

Death

:

July 7, 1911

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Keyboard

 

Samuel de Lange Jr. was a Dutch composer and organist who lived from 1840 to 1911. He was born in Rotterdam, the son of Samuel de Lange Sr., who was also a composer and organist. From a young age, Samuel Jr. showed a great talent for music, and he began studying the organ with his father when he was just six years old. Samuel Jr. continued his musical education at the Rotterdam Conservatory, where he studied with the renowned composer and conductor Johannes Verhulst. He also studied with the organist and composer Friedrich Schneider in Dresden, Germany. These experiences helped to shape Samuel Jr.'s musical style, which was heavily influenced by the German Romantic tradition. In 1863, Samuel Jr. was appointed as the organist of the Grote Kerk in The Hague, a position he held for the rest of his life. He was also a professor of organ and composition at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, where he taught many of the leading Dutch composers of the early 20th century. Samuel Jr.'s compositions were primarily for the organ, and he wrote a large number of works in this genre. His music is characterized by its rich harmonies, lyrical melodies, and virtuosic organ writing. He was also influenced by the French organ tradition, and his music often features colorful registrations and intricate textures. One of Samuel Jr.'s most famous works is his Sonata in F-sharp minor for organ, which was composed in 1874. This piece is a tour-de-force of virtuosic organ writing, with its complex counterpoint, rapid passagework, and dramatic contrasts of mood and texture. The sonata is divided into four movements, each of which showcases a different aspect of the organ's capabilities. Another notable work by Samuel Jr. is his Fantasia and Fugue in C minor for organ, which was composed in 1884. This piece is a masterful example of the fugue form, with its intricate contrapuntal writing and powerful climaxes. The fantasia section of the piece is also notable for its rich harmonies and expressive melodies. In addition to his organ music, Samuel Jr. also wrote a number of choral works, including several Masses and motets. His choral music is characterized by its lush harmonies and expressive melodies, and it often features intricate polyphonic writing. Samuel Jr. was also a prolific writer on music, and he published several books on organ technique and composition. His most famous work in this regard is his Organ School, which is still used as a textbook for organ students today. Throughout his career, Samuel Jr. was highly respected as a composer, performer, and teacher. He was awarded numerous honors and accolades, including the Order of the Netherlands Lion and the Order of Orange-Nassau. His music continues to be performed and admired today, and he is considered one of the most important Dutch composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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