Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:11

"Nun ruhen alle Wälder, BWV 392" is a chorale prelude composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. The piece was likely composed in the early 1700s, during Bach's tenure as the court organist in Weimar. The piece was not published during Bach's lifetime and was only discovered in the 20th century. The piece is a short work for organ, consisting of a single movement. It is based on the hymn "Nun ruhen alle Wälder" by Paul Gerhardt, which translates to "Now all the forests are at rest." The hymn is a meditation on the peace and rest that can be found in God. The piece begins with a simple, flowing melody in the right hand, accompanied by a gentle, undulating figure in the left hand. The melody is then taken up by the pedals, which play a simple, sustained bass line. The piece gradually builds in intensity, with the melody becoming more ornate and the accompaniment becoming more complex. The piece reaches a climax with a series of rapid, virtuosic runs in the right hand, before gradually winding down to a peaceful conclusion. The piece is characteristic of Bach's style, with its intricate counterpoint and use of chromaticism. It is also notable for its use of the pedal, which was still a relatively new addition to the organ at the time of its composition. The piece is a beautiful example of Bach's ability to create a sense of peace and tranquility through his music, and it remains a beloved work in the organ repertoire to this day.

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