North German Organ School, Organic Composition as a Cultural Phenomenon

Abstract

The article "Northern German Organ School: Organic Composition as a Cultural Phenomenon" analyzes the significance of the school of organ composers of northern Germany in the context of the Baroque. The author proposes to abandon “Bach-centrism” and consider other Baroque masters, whose works are an important stage in the musical history of Western Europe. Particular attention is paid to the formation of the Nord-German style through the synthesis of old German traditions of organ playing with new phenomena of the Renaissance and Baroque. The importance of organists in the creation of new genres and forms of music is also emphasized. Using the example of the Nord-Germanic prelude, the author illustrates the transition to autonomous instrumental forms of music based on tonal thinking. The article highlights the fantasy style as an important element in the formation of a modern autonomous musical form in the Baroque, based on tonal harmony, different from vocal-oriented styles. Overall, the article offers new insights into Baroque music and the historical context of the formation of musical concepts in Europe, with an emphasis on the significance of the organ composers of northern Germany.