Composer

:

Vincent Lübeck

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale Prelude

Compose Date

:

ca. 1700

Average_duration

:

6:03

Vincent Lübeck was a German Baroque composer and organist who lived from 1654 to 1740. He was born in Padingbüttel, near Cuxhaven, and spent most of his life in the city of Hamburg. Lübeck was a prolific composer of organ music, and his works are known for their virtuosity and complexity. One of Lübeck's most famous works is his chorale prelude "Nun laßt uns Gott, dem Herren," LübWV 15. This piece was composed in the late 17th century and is based on the hymn of the same name by Johann Walter. The premiere of the piece is not known, but it was likely performed in one of the churches in Hamburg where Lübeck worked as an organist. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different verse of the hymn. The first movement is a prelude that sets the tone for the piece. It begins with a slow, stately introduction that gradually builds in intensity and complexity. The second movement is a fugue that is based on the first verse of the hymn. The fugue is characterized by its intricate counterpoint and virtuosic pedal writing. The third movement is a trio that is based on the second verse of the hymn. The trio is written for two manuals and pedal and is characterized by its lively, dance-like rhythms. The final movement is a chorale that is based on the third verse of the hymn. The chorale is a simple, straightforward setting of the hymn melody that provides a contrast to the virtuosic writing of the previous movements. Overall, "Nun laßt uns Gott, dem Herren" is a masterpiece of Baroque organ music. It showcases Lübeck's skill as a composer and his mastery of the organ. The piece is characterized by its virtuosity, complexity, and rich harmonic language, and it remains a popular work in the organ repertoire to this day.

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