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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6:19

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. Scheidemann's music was highly influential in the development of the organ chorale, which was a type of music that was based on Lutheran hymns. One of Scheidemann's most famous works is "Erbarm dich mein, O Herre Gott," which is a chorale prelude for organ. The piece is based on a hymn by Johann Heermann, which was a popular hymn in the Lutheran church. The hymn is a prayer for mercy and forgiveness, and Scheidemann's music reflects the somber and introspective mood of the text. The piece is composed in four movements, which are played without pause. The first movement is a prelude, which sets the mood for the piece. It begins with a slow and mournful melody, which is played in the lower registers of the organ. The melody is then repeated in the upper registers, with the addition of a counterpoint that adds to the complexity of the music. The second movement is a fugue, which is a type of music that is based on a theme that is repeated and developed throughout the piece. The theme of the fugue is based on the hymn melody, and Scheidemann uses it to create a complex and intricate piece of music. The fugue is played in a fast and lively tempo, which creates a sense of urgency and intensity. The third movement is a trio, which is a type of music that is played by three voices or instruments. In this case, the trio is played by two manuals and the pedal of the organ. The music is slow and contemplative, and it provides a contrast to the fast and complex music of the fugue. The final movement is a chorale, which is a type of music that is based on a hymn. In this case, the chorale is based on the hymn melody, and Scheidemann uses it to create a simple and beautiful piece of music. The music is played in a slow and stately tempo, which creates a sense of reverence and awe. Overall, "Erbarm dich mein, O Herre Gott" is a beautiful and complex piece of music that reflects the somber and introspective mood of the hymn. Scheidemann's use of different musical forms and techniques creates a rich and varied piece of music that is still admired and studied today.

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