Author Description

Product Descriptionfor SSATB and organ continuoSweelinck's 5-voice (SSATB) Epiphany motet Ab Oriente, published in 1619, is a superb example of his polyphonic fluency and of his vivid response to the imagery of the text, depicting the steady, purposeful journey of the Magi, their adoration of the Babe, and of their prophetic gifts. A wonderful addition to the Epiphanytide repertoire and the CMS's expanding Sweelinck motet series.About the AuthorJan Pieterszoon Sweelinck (1562-1621) was a Dutch composer, organist and sought-after teacher. Sweelinck, whose surname comes from his mother's side, was from a family of musicians and organists. He was loyal to his post as Organist of the Oude Kerk in Amsterdam from 1580 until his death. Chiefly known for his keyboard music, which includes toccatas and fantasias, Sweelinck is known for championing a new fugal style and was famed for his improvisations. The north German organ school championed by Sweelinck and his German pupils made a significant impression on later keyboard composition masters such as J. S. Bach. His vocal style, whilst more conservative than his keyboard works, demonstrates a skilful handling of the contemporary contrapuntal choral style.