The Complete Organ Works of Matthias Weckman

Immerse yourself in the masterful organ works of Matthias Weckmann, a pivotal figure in the Northern German Baroque organ school. This comprehensive collection features all the extant organ works genuinely attributed to Weckmann, performed with historical authenticity on two of Germany's most renowned early Baroque organs. The Stellwagen organ in the Jakobikirche in Lübeck and the Scherer organ in the Stephanuskirche in Tangermünde provide the perfect acoustic settings for these intricate compositions.

Weckmann, a student of Heinrich Schütz and Jacob Praetorius, served as the organist at the St. Jacobi church in Hamburg from 1655 until his death in 1674. His music, though not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, is a treasure trove of Baroque organ repertoire, showcasing his mastery of the Italian style and his deep understanding of the organ's capabilities. This album spans over two hours and eleven minutes, featuring 76 tracks that include preludes, toccatas, fantasias, variations, hymns, and canzonas, each performed with meticulous attention to historical performance practices.

The album opens with the Praeludium a 5 and includes notable works such as the Toccata in E Minor, Fantasia in D Minor, and the 4 Variations on Die lieblichen Blicke. Weckmann's settings of hymns like "Ach wir armen Sunder" and "Gelobet seystu Jesu Christ" demonstrate his skill in weaving complex polyphony around familiar chorale tunes. The album also features the Magnificat secundi toni, a grand setting of the Magnificat text, and the intricate O Lux Beata Trinitas, showcasing Weckmann's contrapuntal prowess.

Recorded in 2012, this album is a testament to Weckmann's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the organ repertoire of the Baroque era. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque organ music or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The performances, played on historical organs, bring a sense of immediacy and authenticity that is rarely found in modern recordings. The album is a must-have for anyone interested in the organ music of the Northern German Baroque.