Sonate G-Dur - Siebenbürger Sachsenlied

Organ Sonata in G major, Op. 9 No. 53
Chorale and Fugue on the Transylvanian Saxon Anthem

This organ sonata is founded upon the traditional melody of the Transylvanian Saxon song, a hymn of homeland, identity, and steadfast faith. The text of the song speaks of love for the native land, gratitude for inherited traditions, and trust in divine guidance through changing times — themes reflected in the noble and dignified character of the melody itself.

The work opens with a lyrical chorale setting in which the melody unfolds cantabile, followed by an alternative harmonization that casts the theme in a more contemplative and coloristic light. The concluding four-voice fugue transforms the chorale theme into a contrapuntal structure of increasing momentum, allowing the historic melody to emerge anew within a firmly constructed and architecturally balanced musical form.

Performed on the Mascioni organ of Giubiasco (Switzerland).