Composer

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Heinrich Scheidemann

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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6:24

Heinrich Scheidemann was a German composer and organist who lived from 1595 to 1663. He was a prominent figure in the North German organ school, which was a group of composers and performers who were active in the 17th century in the area around Hamburg. Scheidemann was one of the most important composers of this school, and his music is known for its virtuosity and expressive power. One of Scheidemann's most famous works is his organ piece "Angelus ad pastores ait," which was composed in the early 17th century. The piece is based on a Christmas hymn that tells the story of the angels appearing to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. The hymn is in Latin, and Scheidemann's piece is a set of variations on the melody. "Angelus ad pastores ait" is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different aspect of the hymn. The first movement is a simple statement of the melody, played on the organ's principal stop. The second movement is a more elaborate variation, with the melody played in the upper voice and a complex accompaniment in the lower voices. The third movement is a slower, more contemplative variation, with the melody played in the pedals and a gentle accompaniment in the manuals. The final movement is a virtuosic toccata, with the melody played in the upper voice and a fast, rhythmic accompaniment in the lower voices. One of the characteristics of Scheidemann's music is its use of counterpoint, which is the art of combining different melodies to create a complex texture. In "Angelus ad pastores ait," Scheidemann uses counterpoint to create a rich, layered sound that is both intricate and expressive. Another characteristic of Scheidemann's music is its use of ornamentation, which is the addition of decorative notes to a melody. In "Angelus ad pastores ait," Scheidemann uses ornamentation to add color and variety to the melody, and to create a sense of excitement and joy. "Angelus ad pastores ait" was premiered in the early 17th century, and it quickly became one of Scheidemann's most popular works. It has since become a staple of the organ repertoire, and it is still performed and recorded today. The piece is a testament to Scheidemann's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and emotionally powerful.

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