Homage to Handel op.75b (54 studies in variation form)

The Homage to Handel for Organ was composed as an expression of thanks for having been elected as an honorary member
of the Royal College of Organists in 1914. Karg-Elert responded to the honour with this work, calling on inspiration from a composer
‘whom both England and German claim as their own’, at the time of the commencement of hostilities between the two nations.

After the introduction of the bass theme (a fragment from the Suite in G minor for harpsichord by Handel) 54 variations follow.
In the middle of the composition, the Alleluia from the Messiah is briefly quoted.

The contrasting timbres for each variation are interesting, which are often based on split sound registrations. This is how orchestral imitations such as a viol solo, a duet, a quartet, solo for flute, Flute dialogue, woodwind quartet and trumpet ensemble.

Performance by Christian Brembeck, Berlin
Mix 100:100