Composer

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Franz Tunder

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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11:15

Franz Tunder was a German composer and organist who lived from 1614 to 1667. He was born in Lübeck, Germany, and spent most of his life there. Tunder was a prominent figure in the North German school of organ music, which was known for its complex polyphony and use of chorale melodies. One of Tunder's most famous works is his chorale prelude for organ in C major, "Was kann uns kommen an für Not." The piece was composed in the mid-17th century and premiered in Lübeck, where Tunder was the organist at the Marienkirche. The chorale prelude is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different verse of the hymn "Was kann uns kommen an für Not." The first movement is a simple statement of the melody, played in the right hand while the left hand provides a simple accompaniment. The second movement is more complex, with the melody played in the pedals while the hands provide a more elaborate accompaniment. The third movement is a fugue, with the melody presented in a complex contrapuntal texture. The final movement is a grand statement of the melody, played in the full organ with a triumphant accompaniment. The characteristics of Tunder's chorale prelude are typical of the North German school of organ music. The piece is characterized by its complex polyphony, use of pedal points, and elaborate ornamentation. Tunder's use of the chorale melody as the basis for the piece is also typical of the North German school, which placed great emphasis on the importance of the chorale in Lutheran worship. Overall, Tunder's chorale prelude for organ in C major, "Was kann uns kommen an für Not," is a masterpiece of the North German school of organ music. Its complex polyphony, use of pedal points, and elaborate ornamentation make it a challenging and rewarding piece for organists to play, while its use of the chorale melody makes it a powerful expression of Lutheran faith.

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