Organ-The Prætorius-variationer dedicated to the organist Helge Gramstrup was composed by the Danish organist and composer Jesper Madsen (1957-1999). The work subtitled ‘Variations on a Motet by Michael Prætorius Højlovet være Kongen skøn 1609’ is his largest for Organ. The theme is presented in Prætorius’ own arrangement. Variation 1 has a rhapsodic improvisatory feel; Variation 2 that of a fast movement from a Bach Trio Sonata. Variation 3 is a slow siciliano and Variation 4’s wispy scherzando complements the meditative Variation 5. Variation 6 marked Finale starts majestically butsoon evolves into a French-style toccata with the melody on the pedal reeds. The work culminates in a triumphant arrangement of the original theme. A review in the July/August issue of Choir and Organ magazine calls this work 'very approachable' and a 'very useful recital piece although it's trickier than it looks.'
