Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Germany

Birth

:

March 23, 1599

Death

:

July 2, 1663

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Vocal

 

Thomas Selle was a German composer and musician who lived during the Baroque period. He was born on December 23, 1599, in Zörbig, a small town in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt. Selle was the son of a schoolmaster and grew up in a family that valued education and music. He received his early musical training from his father and later studied with the renowned composer Heinrich Schütz. Selle began his career as a musician in 1624 when he was appointed as the cantor and organist at the St. Mary's Church in Zwickau. He held this position for 20 years and during this time, he composed a large number of sacred works, including motets, cantatas, and chorales. Selle's music was highly regarded by his contemporaries, and he was considered one of the leading composers of his time. In 1644, Selle moved to Hamburg, where he was appointed as the cantor and organist at the St. Peter's Church. This was a prestigious position, and Selle was responsible for directing the music for all the church services. He held this position until his death in 1663. During his time in Hamburg, Selle continued to compose music, and his output was prolific. He composed a large number of sacred works, including motets, cantatas, and chorales, as well as secular works, such as songs and instrumental music. Selle's music was highly regarded by his contemporaries, and he was considered one of the leading composers of his time. One of Selle's most famous works is his setting of the Magnificat, which is a hymn of praise to the Virgin Mary. Selle's Magnificat is a beautiful and complex work that showcases his skill as a composer. It is scored for choir, soloists, and orchestra, and features intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies. Another notable work by Selle is his setting of the Passion according to St. John. This work is a musical retelling of the story of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and it is scored for choir, soloists, and orchestra. Selle's setting of the Passion is a powerful and emotional work that captures the drama and intensity of the story. Selle also composed a large number of chorales, which are hymns that are sung by the congregation during church services. His chorales are simple and straightforward, but they are also beautiful and deeply moving. Selle's chorales were widely used in churches throughout Germany, and they continue to be sung today. In addition to his sacred works, Selle also composed a number of secular works, including songs and instrumental music. His songs are simple and elegant, and they often feature beautiful melodies and rich harmonies. Selle's instrumental music is also notable for its beauty and complexity, and it showcases his skill as a composer. Overall, Thomas Selle was a highly skilled and prolific composer who made significant contributions to the music of the Baroque period. His music was highly regarded by his contemporaries, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed today. Selle's legacy as a composer is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft, and his music remains an important part of the classical music canon.

More....