Composer

:

Johann Jacob Froberger

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Toccata

Compose Date

:

before 1656

Publication Date

:

1656

Average_duration

:

4:59

Johann Jacob Froberger was a German Baroque composer and keyboard player who lived from 1616 to 1667. He was known for his keyboard music, which was highly influential in the development of the Baroque style. One of his most famous works is the Toccata No. 11 da sonarsi alla levitatione, for keyboard in E minor, FbWV 111. The Toccata No. 11 was composed in the mid-17th century, and it is believed to have been written for the harpsichord or organ. The piece is in E minor and is divided into three movements. The first movement is a toccata, which is a virtuosic piece that showcases the performer's technical abilities. The second movement is a fugue, which is a contrapuntal form that features a main theme that is repeated and developed throughout the piece. The third movement is a chaconne, which is a form that features a repeated chord progression over which the composer can create variations. The Toccata No. 11 is known for its technical demands, particularly in the toccata and fugue movements. The toccata features rapid arpeggios and runs, while the fugue requires the performer to navigate complex counterpoint. The chaconne, on the other hand, is more lyrical and allows the performer to showcase their expressive abilities. One of the unique features of the Toccata No. 11 is its title, which translates to "Toccata No. 11 to be played while levitating." While it is unclear whether Froberger intended for the piece to be played while the performer was actually levitating, the title suggests that he was interested in exploring the relationship between music and the supernatural. The Toccata No. 11 was premiered during Froberger's lifetime, and it has since become a staple of the keyboard repertoire. Its technical demands and expressive qualities continue to make it a popular choice for performers and audiences alike.

More....