Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
"Sei gegrüsset, Jesu gütig" (BWV 768) is a monumental set of chorale variations by Johann Sebastian Bach, representing the peak of the Baroque partita form. This extensive work comprises 11 inventive variations on a Lutheran hymn tune, showcasing Bach's youthful genius and his deep study of masters like Böhm, Buxtehude, and Reincken. Unlike his later, more rigorous chorale preludes, this partita displays incredible imaginative freedom, exploring diverse textures, rhythms, and styles while keeping the melody clearly audible. The final variation is a dazzling five-voice fugal movement for full organ, demonstrating Bach's contrapuntal mastery even in his early years.