Composer

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Heinrich Scheidemann

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Prelude

Average_duration

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1:29

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 Prelude for organ in D, WV 35 is one of his most famous works, and it is a prime example of the style and techniques of the North German organ school. The Prelude for organ in D, WV 35 was composed in the early 17th century, although the exact date is not known. It was likely written for use in church services, as Scheidemann was the organist at the St. Catherine's Church in Hamburg for most of his career. The piece is in four movements, which are played without pause. The movements are: 1. Praeludium: This is the opening movement of the Prelude, and it is characterized by its lively tempo and virtuosic organ writing. The movement begins with a series of rapid arpeggios, which are followed by a series of chords that build in intensity. The movement ends with a flourish of fast notes and a final chord. 2. Fuga: The second movement of the Prelude is a fugue, which is a type of composition that features a main theme that is repeated and developed throughout the piece. Scheidemann's fugue is in four voices, and it is characterized by its contrapuntal writing and complex harmonies. The theme is introduced in the first voice, and it is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The movement ends with a final statement of the theme in the first voice. 3. Trio: The third movement of the Prelude is a trio, which is a type of composition that features three voices. Scheidemann's trio is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and its use of ornamentation. The movement begins with a simple melody in the first voice, which is then echoed by the other two voices. The melody is then developed and embellished with trills and other ornaments. The movement ends with a final statement of the melody in the first voice. 4. Choral: The final movement of the Prelude is a choral, which is a type of composition that is based on a hymn or chorale. Scheidemann's choral is based on the hymn "Nun freut euch, lieben Christen g'mein," which was a popular hymn in the Lutheran church. The movement is characterized by its slow tempo and its use of harmonies that are rich and complex. The melody of the hymn is introduced in the first voice, and it is then echoed and developed by the other voices. The movement ends with a final statement of the hymn in the first voice. Overall, Scheidemann's Prelude for organ in D, WV 35 is a masterful example of the North German organ school. It showcases Scheidemann's virtuosic organ writing, his contrapuntal skills, and his ability to create music that is both complex and beautiful. The piece is still performed today, and it remains a testament to Scheidemann's skill as a composer and organist.

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