Nicolaus Bruhns

A German composer who also played the organ, violin and viola da gamba. Bruhn was an excellent representatve of the middle baroque; a student of Buxtehude and a possible influence on J. S. Bach. His violin playing was considered remarkable in that he could make one violin sound as if a number of instruments were playing. Much of his music has not survived. That which has, particularly the vocal works, illustrates an Italian influence regarding solo virtuosity. Extant pieces include 12 cantatas and 5 compositions for organ. ~ Keith Johnson