Walter Kraft

Walter Kraft (Cologne, 9 June 1905 – Amsterdam, 9 May 1977) was a German organist and composer, best known for his remarkably long tenure (1929–72) at the Marienkirche, Lübeck.

Biography Kraft studied piano and organ in Hamburg with Hanneman, and studied composition in Berlin with Paul Hindemith. After his studies, his first professional organist position was Hamburg's Markuskirche in 1924, followed by Altona's Lutherkirche in 1927.

In 1929, Kraft was unanimously selected (from among 45 applicants) for a life appointment as organist in Lübeck's Marienkirche. He held this position until his retirement in 1972. but never finished any such work.

He married violinist Eva-Marie Kraft. Kraft died along with 32 others in the Hotel Polen fire in Amsterdam.

Selected Compositions For Organ:

Te deum for 2 organs (1943) [manuscript only] Partita on Nun will sich scheiden Nacht und Tag [Baerenreiter, 1949]. Based on the song by Heinrich Schütz. Toccata on 'Ite missa est' [Schott, 1970] Prelude in G [Eulenburg, 1970] Fantasia on Three Easter Songs [Amadeus, 1974] Triptychon on 'St. Michael' [Schott, 1975] Fantasie 'Media vita in morte sumus' [Amadeus] Five Short Organ Pieces [Amadeus] Fantasy Dies Irae Fantasy on Mitten wir im Leben Sind. Based on Martin Luther's 1524 song (which itself is based on the Gregorian chant Media vita in morte).

Organ with Instruments:

Ostsee-Kantate (Baltic Cantata, 1931). Kraft's first major commission, for 1931's "Nordische Orgelwerke", based on writings of Hans Henny Jahnn and the national anthems of seven Baltic countries. Lübecker Totentanz for soloists, choir, organ, and instruments. Inspired by the Marienkirche's Totentanz painting destroyed during WWII. Premiered in 1954 in St. Catherine's Church. The organ solo Toccata has been recorded. Prelude, Pastorale & Chaconne, flute & organ [Amadeus, 1947] Concerto for organ & chamber orchestra (1963) [manuscript only] Metaphern (Metaphors), violin & organ [Hanssler, 1979]. Pieces arranged according to the description of Jerusalem's precious gems as found in Revelations. Dedicated to and premiered by his wife Eva-Maria Kraft.

Other:

Christus , 7-part a capella work. Its 1944 premiere was banned by the Gestapo, later premiered in October 1945. Die Gemeinschaft der Heiligen for soli, choirs, wind instruments, bells, parish and organ. Written for the 250-year celebration of Buxtehude's death, and with the Marienkirche's acoustics specifically in mind.