Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Germany

Birth

:

March 7, 1621 in Langensalza, Thuringia

Death

:

July 8, 1681 in Weimar, Germany

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Keyboard

 

Georg Neumark was a German composer and poet who lived during the 17th century. He was born on March 16, 1621, in Langensalza, a town in the Thuringia region of Germany. Neumark was the son of a tailor and grew up in a modest household. Despite his humble beginnings, he showed an early interest in music and began to play the lute and the violin at a young age. Neumark's musical talents were recognized by the local church, and he was given the opportunity to study music under the tutelage of the church organist. He quickly became proficient in playing the organ and began to compose his own music. Neumark's early compositions were influenced by the music of his time, which was characterized by the use of polyphony and counterpoint. In 1640, Neumark left Langensalza to study law at the University of Königsberg. While studying there, he continued to pursue his musical interests and became involved in the local music scene. He played the organ at the university chapel and composed music for various occasions, including weddings and funerals. In 1644, Neumark's life took a dramatic turn when he was robbed while traveling from Königsberg to his hometown. He lost all of his possessions, including his musical instruments and manuscripts. Despite this setback, Neumark remained determined to continue his musical career. He found work as a tutor and began to save money to buy new instruments and music paper. In 1646, Neumark moved to Weimar, where he found employment as a private tutor. He continued to compose music during this time and wrote several hymns that would later become popular in Germany. One of his most famous hymns, "Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten" (Whoever trusts in God alone), was written during this period. In 1652, Neumark moved to Frankfurt, where he worked as a secretary for a wealthy merchant. He continued to compose music during his free time and wrote several more hymns, including "Ich hab mein Sach Gott heimgestellt" (I have entrusted my affairs to God). Neumark's hymns were characterized by their simple melodies and uplifting lyrics, which made them popular with the general public. In 1657, Neumark published a collection of his hymns under the title "Fortgepflantzter Musikalisch-Poetischer Lustwald" (Musical-Poetic Pleasure Garden). The collection was well-received and helped to establish Neumark's reputation as a composer and poet. The collection included several of his most famous hymns, including "Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten" and "Ich hab mein Sach Gott heimgestellt." Neumark continued to compose music and write poetry throughout his life. He died on July 8, 1681, in Weimar, at the age of 60. Despite his relatively short life, Neumark left behind a significant body of work that has continued to be appreciated by music lovers and scholars alike. Neumark's music was characterized by its simplicity and elegance. He was known for his use of simple melodies and harmonies, which made his music accessible to a wide audience. His hymns were particularly popular, as they were easy to sing and had uplifting lyrics that resonated with people of all ages. Neumark's most famous hymn, "Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten," has been translated into several languages and is still sung in churches around the world. The hymn is a testament to Neumark's faith and his belief in the power of God to guide and protect us in all aspects of our lives.

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