Composer

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Michal Novenko

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Keyboard

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Keyboard

Michal Novenko's 'Hymn preludes (2)' is a collection of two preludes for organ, composed in 2015. The work was premiered on October 15, 2015, at the Church of St. James in Brno, Czech Republic, by the composer himself. The first prelude, titled "Nearer, My God, to Thee," is a contemplative and introspective piece that explores the hymn's text through a series of variations. The prelude begins with a simple statement of the hymn tune in the pedal, which is then taken up by the manuals in a gentle and expressive manner. The variations that follow are characterized by a sense of increasing intensity and complexity, with the hymn tune becoming more fragmented and distorted as the piece progresses. The prelude ends with a return to the simple statement of the hymn tune in the pedal, bringing the piece full circle. The second prelude, titled "All Creatures of Our God and King," is a joyful and exuberant piece that celebrates the hymn's text through a series of lively and rhythmic variations. The prelude begins with a fanfare-like statement of the hymn tune in the manuals, which is then taken up by the pedal in a series of virtuosic runs and flourishes. The variations that follow are characterized by a sense of playfulness and energy, with the hymn tune being transformed through a variety of rhythmic and harmonic devices. The prelude ends with a triumphant restatement of the hymn tune in the manuals and pedal, bringing the piece to a rousing conclusion. Overall, 'Hymn preludes (2)' is a masterful and engaging work that showcases Novenko's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the organ as an instrument. The two preludes are united by their exploration of the hymn form and their use of variation as a compositional technique, but they are also distinct in their mood and character, reflecting the different texts and emotions of the hymns they are based on.

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