Composer

:

Dietrich Buxtehude

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale Prelude

Compose Date

:

ca. 1690

Average_duration

:

3:24

Dietrich Buxtehude was a German-Danish composer and organist of the Baroque era. He was known for his contributions to the development of the chorale prelude, a musical form that was popular in the Lutheran Church. One of his most famous chorale preludes is BuxWV 215, "Nun lob, mein Seel, den Herren." Buxtehude composed "Nun lob, mein Seel, den Herren" in the late 17th century, during his tenure as the organist at the Marienkirche in Lübeck, Germany. The piece is believed to have been written for the organ, although it can also be played on other keyboard instruments. The chorale prelude is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different verse of the hymn "Nun lob, mein Seel, den Herren." The first movement is a prelude that sets the tone for the piece. It features a lively, rhythmic melody that is played in the right hand, while the left hand provides a steady accompaniment. The second movement is a fugue that is based on the second verse of the hymn. It features a complex, interweaving melody that is played by both hands. The third movement is a trio that is based on the third verse of the hymn. It features a simple, yet elegant melody that is played by the right hand, while the left hand provides a gentle accompaniment. The final movement is a toccata that is based on the fourth verse of the hymn. It features a virtuosic, improvisational style that showcases the performer's technical skill. The piece ends with a triumphant flourish that brings the chorale prelude to a close. Overall, "Nun lob, mein Seel, den Herren" is a masterful example of Buxtehude's skill as a composer and organist. It showcases his ability to create complex, multi-movement works that are based on simple hymns. The piece is also notable for its use of counterpoint, which was a hallmark of Baroque music.

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