Sigfrid Karg-Elert BiographyA chorister at the Johanniskirche in Leipzig, Sigfrid Karg had his earlier musical education there, before training to become a teacher. His father's death in 1889 had brought financial difficulties, which led him, as an adolescent, to support himself as a freelance musician. In 1896 he entered Leipzig Conservatory. His earlier career suggested the possibility of earning a living as a solo pianist, but the encouragement of Grieg led him to further musical study and to composition. Rejecting the modernist musical tendencies that had interested him for a time, he wrote relatively little after the 1914-18 war.
Music for Organ and Harmonium
Karg-Elert, the second part of his name taken from that of his mother, is principally known for the many works that he wrote for the improved four-rank harmonium and which he performed on that instrument. Some of these formed the basis of his organ music and make not inconsiderable technical demands on a performer. Although he wrote a quantity of instrumental and vocal music, his name is today chiefly remembered by organists.
(Keith Anderson)
Narrow your selection