Composer

:

Wilhelm Kempff

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

before 1953

Average_duration

:

4:35

"Nun komm der Heiden Heiland" is a chorale prelude composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Wilhelm Kempff, a German pianist and composer, arranged this piece for piano solo, which is known as "Nun komm der Heiden Heiland (after J. S. Bach BWV 659a)." Kempff composed this piece in the 20th century, and it was premiered in 1968. The piece has one movement and is approximately four minutes long. The piece begins with a slow and solemn introduction, which sets the mood for the entire piece. The melody of the chorale is then introduced in the right hand, while the left hand plays a simple accompaniment. The melody is played in a straightforward manner, with little embellishment. As the piece progresses, the left hand becomes more active, playing arpeggios and broken chords. The right hand also becomes more active, playing more complex variations of the melody. The piece reaches a climax with a series of fast and virtuosic runs in both hands. Throughout the piece, Kempff stays true to the original melody and harmonies of Bach's chorale prelude. However, he adds his own personal touch by incorporating more complex harmonies and virtuosic piano techniques. Overall, "Nun komm der Heiden Heiland (after J. S. Bach BWV 659a)" is a beautiful and virtuosic arrangement of Bach's original chorale prelude. Kempff's personal touch adds a new dimension to the piece, while still staying true to the original melody and harmonies.

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