Composer

Johann Crüger

1598 — 1662

Albums

Christmas Lullaby

Knabenchor Collegium Iuvenum Stuttgart, Michael Čulo

Alle Jahre wieder. Melodien für die Weihnachtszeit

Christine Busch, Kay Johannsen

Aus meines Herzens Grunde (Großdruck)

Ruth Sandhoff, Sarah Wegener, Marion Eckstein, Andreas Weller, Klaus Mertens, Thilo Dahlmann, Kay Johannsen, Götz Payer

Bläsermusik zur Weihnachtszeit

Blechbläserenesemble Ludwig Güttler, Ludwig Güttler

Lieder zu Advent und Weihnachten (Orgelimprovisationen)

Kay Johannsen

The English Hymn 3 – Hills of the North, Rejoice (Hymns for the Church Year)

Rupert Gough, Wells Cathedral Choir, Malcolm Archer

Discover the Incomparable Talents of Johann Crüger with STAGE+

Johann Crüger, a renowned German composer from the 17th century, is best known for his significant contributions to Protestant church music. His melodious hymns have resonated through the ages, exuding a powerful aura of spirituality and devotion, and continue to be sung and celebrated today. One such masterpiece that stands among his captivating collection is the English Hymn 3 – "Hills of the North, Rejoice."

Crüger's Musical Journey

This hymn, part of an anthology alluding to the season benchmarks in the Church Year, is a testament to his profound understanding of the gospel and his exceptional ability to translate that wisdom into music. Crüger's compositions echo with rich harmony, enacting a perfect blend of traditional liturgical styles and his unique creative approach.

Experiencing Crüger's Works Today

Experience this divine narrative in a new light with performances by contemporary artists such as Rupert Gough, Wells Cathedral Choir, and Malcolm Archer. With their rendition, they perfectly encapsulate Crüger's musical journey, bringing to life his rich palette of sonorous hues.

The Enduring Influence of Johann Crüger

Although centuries have passed since Johann Crüger first gifted his hymns to the world, the influence and inspiration of his powerful works remain unequivocal and enduring. Join STAGE+ as we explore and appreciate the captivating compositions by the master hymnist - Johann Crüger.

Overview of Johann Crüger

Johann Crüger (1598–1662) was a German composer, music theorist, and editor renowned for his contributions to church music, particularly within the Lutheran tradition. Crüger served as cantor at the Nikolai Church in Berlin from 1622 until his death, a position that allowed him to shape the musical life of the church and contribute significantly to the development of congregational singing.

Significant Works and Legacy

Crüger's most influential publication was Praxis Pietatis Melica, first appearing in 1644. This hymnal became one of the most important collections of German hymnody in the seventeenth century and was reprinted 44 times over the next hundred years. Crüger not only edited this hymnal but also contributed many original melodies, including enduring favorites such as Jesu, meine Freude and Herzliebster Jesu, was hast du verbrochen.

Crüger was notable for including figured bass accompaniments in his hymnals, a practice that helped standardize the use of this musical shorthand in German sacred music. His other collections, such as Neues vollkomliches Gesangbuch (1640) and Geistliche Kirchen Melodien (1649), also played key roles in the evolution of church music by introducing new arrangements for voices and instruments.

Influence on English Hymnody

Many of Crüger’s chorale melodies became staples in Lutheran worship and later found their way into English-language hymnals. His melodies adapted seamlessly into the Anglican and broader Protestant traditions, exemplifying Crüger’s cross-cultural influence.