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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8:38

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 in the area around Hamburg. Scheidemann was one of the most important composers of his time, and his music had a significant influence on the development of the organ repertoire. One of Scheidemann's most famous works is his chorale prelude "Jesus Christus, unser Heiland," which was composed in the early 17th century. The piece is based on a Lutheran hymn of the same name, which was written by Martin Luther in the 16th century. The hymn is a meditation on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, and it is often sung during the Christmas season. Scheidemann's chorale prelude is a set of variations on the hymn tune, and it is divided into four movements. The first movement is a simple statement of the melody, played on the organ's principal stops. The second movement is a more elaborate variation, with the melody played in the upper voice and a series of ornamental figures in the lower voices. The third movement is a slower, more contemplative variation, with the melody played in the pedals and a series of harmonies in the upper voices. The final movement is a lively fugue, with the melody played in the upper voice and a series of imitative entries in the lower voices. The characteristics of Scheidemann's chorale prelude are typical of the North German organ school. The piece is written in a contrapuntal style, with multiple voices weaving in and out of each other. The harmonies are often complex, with dissonances and suspensions used to create tension and release. The piece is also highly virtuosic, with the organist required to play a variety of technical passages and ornaments. Overall, Scheidemann's chorale prelude "Jesus Christus, unser Heiland" is a masterpiece of the North German organ school. Its combination of virtuosity, contrapuntal complexity, and spiritual depth make it a powerful expression of the Lutheran faith and a testament to Scheidemann's skill as a composer and organist.

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