Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

June 9, 1905

Death

:

May 9, 1977

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Keyboard

 

Walter Kraft was a German classical music artist who was born on June 9, 1905, in Mannheim, Germany. He was a renowned organist, composer, and conductor who made significant contributions to the world of classical music during his lifetime. Kraft began his musical journey at a young age, showing a keen interest in music from an early age. He received his first music lessons from his father, who was a church musician. He later went on to study at the Mannheim Conservatory, where he received training in piano, organ, and composition. After completing his studies, Kraft began his career as a church musician, serving as an organist and choir director in various churches in Germany. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented musician and was soon invited to perform in concerts across Europe. In 1933, Kraft was appointed as the organist at the St. Michaelis Church in Hamburg, where he remained for the next 30 years. During his tenure at the church, he became known for his innovative and experimental approach to music, incorporating elements of modernism into his compositions. Kraft's music was heavily influenced by the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, and he was known for his interpretations of Bach's organ music. He was also a prolific composer, with over 200 works to his name, including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. One of the highlights of Kraft's career was his performance at the International Bach Festival in Leipzig in 1950. He was invited to perform Bach's complete organ works, a feat that had never been accomplished before. The performance was a resounding success, and Kraft received widespread acclaim for his interpretation of Bach's music. Kraft's contributions to the world of classical music were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1955, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany for his services to music. He was also awarded the Bach Medal by the city of Leipzig in 1965, in recognition of his contributions to the performance and interpretation of Bach's music. Kraft continued to perform and compose music until his death on October 1, 1977, in Hamburg, Germany. His legacy lives on through his music, which continues to be performed and celebrated by classical music enthusiasts around the world.

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