Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale Prelude

Compose Date

:

1739

Publication Date

:

1739

Average_duration

:

5:06

'Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr (VI), BWV 676' is a chorale prelude composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is part of his collection of chorale preludes known as the Orgelbüchlein, which he began compiling in Weimar in 1713 and completed in Leipzig in 1716. The piece is based on the Lutheran hymn "Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr" (To God alone on high be praise), which was written by Nikolaus Decius in 1522. The piece is in the key of G major and is written for the organ. It consists of a single movement and has a duration of approximately two minutes. The prelude begins with a simple statement of the hymn melody in the pedal, accompanied by a flowing arpeggio in the right hand. The melody is then taken up by the left hand, while the right hand plays a series of ornamental figures. The piece builds to a climax with a series of ascending arpeggios in both hands, before ending with a quiet, reflective coda. The characteristics of 'Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr (VI), BWV 676' are typical of Bach's chorale preludes. The piece is characterized by its contrapuntal texture, with the hymn melody being woven into a complex web of interlocking voices. Bach's use of harmony is also notable, with the piece moving through a series of key changes and chromatic harmonies that add depth and richness to the music. 'Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr (VI), BWV 676' was likely composed in Leipzig between 1713 and 1716, although the exact date of composition is unknown. The piece was first performed as part of Bach's regular church services at the Thomaskirche in Leipzig, where he served as cantor from 1723 until his death in 1750. Today, the piece remains a popular choice for organists and is frequently performed in recitals and church services around the world.

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