Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Germany

Birth

:

April 3, 1863 in Werve

Death

:

May 4, 1943 in Dortmund, Germany

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Keyboard

 

Wilhelm Middelschulte was a German-American composer and organist who was born on March 21, 1863, in Osnabrück, Germany. He was the son of a music teacher and grew up in a musical family. His father, Heinrich Middelschulte, was a well-known organist and composer, and his mother, Maria, was a singer and pianist. Wilhelm showed an early interest in music and began studying the piano and organ at a young age. In 1881, Middelschulte moved to Berlin to study music at the Royal Academy of Music. He studied composition with Friedrich Kiel and organ with August Haupt. After completing his studies, he worked as an organist and conductor in various churches and theaters in Berlin. In 1892, he was appointed as the organist at the Berlin Cathedral, where he remained until 1901. In 1901, Middelschulte moved to the United States and settled in Chicago. He became the organist and choirmaster at St. Paul's Universalist Church and later at St. James Episcopal Church. He also taught at the American Conservatory of Music and the Chicago Musical College. Middelschulte's compositions were influenced by the German Romantic tradition and the French impressionist style. He wrote music for orchestra, chamber ensembles, choir, and solo instruments. His most famous work is his Symphony No. 1, which was premiered in 1908 by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Frederick Stock. The symphony is a lush and romantic work that showcases Middelschulte's skill as an orchestrator. Middelschulte was also known for his organ music. He wrote several works for the instrument, including his Sonata No. 1, which is considered one of his most important works. The sonata is a virtuosic piece that showcases the full range of the organ and demonstrates Middelschulte's mastery of the instrument. In addition to his compositions, Middelschulte was also a respected organist. He gave recitals throughout the United States and Europe and was known for his improvisational skills. He was particularly admired for his performances of the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. Middelschulte died on December 9, 1943, in Chicago. He left behind a legacy of music that continues to be performed and admired today. His compositions are known for their lush harmonies, expressive melodies, and virtuosic writing for the organ. He was a respected composer and organist who made significant contributions to the musical world.

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