O Sacred Head, Now Wounded

Seven historic and stylistically diverse organ settings of the treasured tune HERZLICH TUT MICH VERLANGEN are carefully edited for practical use and scholarly study. Spanning more than three centuries from early Baroque masters to late Romantic expressionists, church musicians, students, and recitalists are offered a unique opportunity to explore how one profound cantus firmus has inspired generations of composers. Beginning with Hans Leo Hassler's original 1601 chorale and continuing through expressive works by Pachelbel, Walther (two variations), Buxtehude, Kirnberger, Brahms, and Reger, the collection highlights the extraordinary emotional depth of the Passion Chorale tune.