Johann Crüger

1598-1662

Born: April 9, 1598, Groß-Breesen/Niederlausitz, Germany (near Guben an der Neiße, on the present Polish border). Died: February 23, 1662, Berlin, Germany. Buried: Nikolaikirche, Berlin, Germany.

Crüger began studying theology in Wittenberg in 1620. In 1622, he became organist of the Nikolaikirche (St. Nikolai Church) in Berlin. He was a friend of Paul Gerhardt, and wrote melodies for many hymns by Gerhardt and others. Crüger composed sacred works for choral and instrumental performances, and was also a musicologist and wrote about the theory and practice of music. In 1640, Crüger edited a hymnal, titled (beginning with the 1647 edition) Praxis Pietatis Melica. His other works include:

• Synopsis musica, 1630
• Musicae practicae praecepta (Rules for Practicing Music), 1660

Music:

1. Auf, auf, mein Herz
2. Gräfenberg
3. Herzliebster Jesu
4. Holy Ghost
5. Jesu, Meine Freude
6. Luise
7. Nun Danket
8. O Jesus Christ, dein Kripplein
9. Schmücke Dich