Nicolas Le Bègue (1631–1702) is one of the most important organists and composers of the early French Baroque period. As court organist at the French royal court, he influenced an entire generation of musicians, including the young François Couperin. His works are characterised by delicate ornamentation, clear structures and a festive, meditative character. Nicolas Le Bègue published several Christmas pieces in his third ‘Livre d'Orgue’, which, with their lively alternation of folk melodies and spirited variations, are among the most beautiful of their kind.
The three Christmas pieces presented here – originally composed for keyboard instruments – have been sensitively arranged for trumpet and organ by Eberhard Kraus (1931-2003). In this instrumentation, they unfold their full sonic splendour and are ideal for the musical accompaniment of festive church services or Christmas concerts.
Content:
1. Puer nobis nascitur
2. Une Vierge Pucelle
3. Noël pour l'amour de Marie
