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The organ works of Johann Sebastian Bach (1685 - 1750) are the ultimate
examples of the organist's art. Bach composed hundreds of works for the organ and
although these compositions comprise only approximately seven percent of the
composer's total output, they rank as some of the master's most edifying
creations. J. S. Bach was not only a composer of the most inspired works for every
media known to his era, but he was a consummate performer on the violin and
keyboard instruments. His unique command of the instrument is readily apparent in
all of his organ works and these magnificent compositions still stand at the
center of every serious organist's repertoire.
Beginning in April of 1997, James D. Hicks began performing (what is eventually intended to be) the complete organ works of Bach at The Presbyterian Church in Morristown. Attempting to match an occasion with a particular composition, Jim continues this (admittedly) leisurely presentation of this body of works in concerts, services and classes. A goal of this cycle is not only to present the complete works of Bach but to offer them in a context true to the spirit of each work. For example, penitential works for the Lenten season of the liturgical year are performed in extended preludes for such occasions as Ash Wednesday or Good Friday. An important festival in the year such as Pentecost might see an extended work such as Komm, Heiliger Geist (Come, Holy Spirit) offered as a prelude to that specific liturgy as it was on June 8, 2003. More bravura works such as the larger preludes and/or toccata and fugues usually appear in a concert presentation. Any work that has been given a BWV number is planned for inclusion in this cycle even if recent scholarship has made a strong case for another composer's authorship. While many of the Bach organ works have already been performed on this series, there is much left to consider. Bach enthusiasts are encouraged to watch the list below to see when the next compostion will be performed, whether it be at a service, concert or class. The supreme craftsmanship of this music, its proclamation of the Christian faith, and its nobility of spirit are as pertinent to today's needs as ever before. In that spirit, James D. Hicks is privileged to offer this unrivaled body of works to those in need of spiritual refreshment. |
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VIEW WORKS ALREADY PERFORMED IN THIS SERIES Bach Works Perfomed by James D. Hicks |
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