SKU: HL.14029611
Composed in 1899.
SKU: CA.1808200
ISBN 9790007164003.
This volume presents 64 Pastorale compositions for organ (harpsichord/pianoforte) of the 18th century from Germany, Bohemia, Austria and South Tyrol. Charming melodies shaped by natural notes, bordoun basses, a lyrical-cheerful or sensitive tone - these are some of the common characteristics of the works in this collection. Several of them are connected to the custom of the Kindlwiegen or cradle song. Those in search of new discoveries will also find a number of first editions here. Almost all of the pieces can be played manualiter and range from easy to moderate level of difficulty. Together, both Pastorale volumes display an impressive kaleidoscope of the different national characteristics of the pastorale and offer a rich repertoire for organists, not only at Christmas time.
SKU: CA.5600300
ISBN 9790007188047.
The organ is the instrument on which the young Giacomo Puccini began his career as a musician. Through the rediscovery of a considerable number of hand-written pieces, which he composed after 1870 as part of his duties as organist in the churches of Lucca, several primary sources are now available. These give an insight into the beginnings of his musical activities which have only been known about from anecdotes from his first biographers until now. Puccini's organ repertoire includes works which were typical for liturgical organ music at that time: sonatas for the main sections of the mass, versets which were substituted for Gregorian chant, marches, which were played after the mass (exceptionally even waltzes), and even a pastorale for Christmas time. This music was written with the sound of instruments made in Tuscany in mind. These have just one manual, a 8 foot Principale register and a small pedalboard always coupled to the manual. In addition there were several solo stops divided into bass and soprano.Puccini contributed with originality to the renewal of Italian organ practice, which began in his day to discard its operatic style in favor of a style more suited to the liturgy.
