Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale Prelude

Compose Date

:

1896

Average_duration

:

3:13

Johannes Brahms composed the Choral Prelude for Organ Herzlich tut mich verlangen II, Op. posth. 122/10 in 1896, just a year before his death. The piece was premiered posthumously in 1902 by the German organist Karl Straube. The Choral Prelude is part of Brahms' Eleven Chorale Preludes for Organ, Op. 122, which he composed during the last years of his life. The piece is based on the hymn "Herzlich tut mich verlangen" by the German composer and theologian Christoph Knoll. The hymn is a meditation on the longing for death and the desire to be with God. The Choral Prelude is in four movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the hymn. The first movement is a gentle and introspective meditation on the opening lines of the hymn. The second movement is more lively and joyful, reflecting the hope and anticipation of being with God. The third movement is a somber and mournful reflection on the inevitability of death. The final movement is a triumphant and exultant celebration of the soul's union with God. The Choral Prelude is characterized by Brahms' characteristic use of counterpoint and chromaticism. The piece is also notable for its use of pedal points, which create a sense of tension and release throughout the work. The Choral Prelude is a testament to Brahms' mastery of the organ and his ability to create deeply spiritual and emotional music.

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