Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Canon

Compose Date

:

before 1747

Publication Date

:

1957

Average_duration

:

12:22

Johann Sebastian Bach's 'Vom himmel hoch, da komm ich her (II), BWV 769a' is a chorale prelude for organ, composed in 1746. It is based on the Christmas hymn of the same name, which was written by Martin Luther in 1535. The piece was likely composed for use in church services during the Christmas season. The chorale prelude is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different verse of the hymn. The first movement is a simple setting of the melody, with the organ playing the chorale tune in the upper voice while the lower voices provide a harmonic accompaniment. The second movement is a more elaborate setting of the same melody, with the organ playing a virtuosic variation on the chorale tune while the lower voices provide a more complex harmonic accompaniment. The third movement is a fugue based on the hymn tune, with the organ playing a complex contrapuntal texture that weaves together the different voices of the hymn. The final movement is a simple setting of the melody, with the organ playing the chorale tune in the upper voice while the lower voices provide a harmonic accompaniment. Overall, 'Vom himmel hoch, da komm ich her (II), BWV 769a' is a masterful example of Bach's skill as a composer of organ music. The piece showcases his ability to create complex contrapuntal textures while still maintaining a clear sense of melody and harmony. It is a fitting tribute to the Christmas season and to the rich tradition of hymnody that has been a part of Christian worship for centuries.

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