This installment looks at the development of the organ during the 17th and 18th centuries, focusing on exceptional composers of organ music from Sweelinck, the maker of organists; through to Buxtehude; and the golden age of J.S. Bach. During this time, the organ became increasingly important in religious throughout Europe, thanks to Lutheran reforms in the Church. This episode looks at the use of organ music in worship and the influence of the great German school of organ builders in northern Europe. Highly acclaimed organists Gustav Leonhardt, Bernard Foccroulle and Hans Heintze perform the great masterpieces of this era.
