Musical Contribution - December 2025

Come, All You People, Wonder Here - J.G. Groothengel (1893–1977)

A few years ago, I received this composition from a grandson of Johan Gerhard Groothengel. I had come across this name before in my father’s archive (he was an amateur organist), though usually in connection with short chorale preludes. My positive surprise was therefore all the greater when I discovered this Fantasy and Fugue.

Johan Gerhard Groothengel was born in Borne on 18 August 1893 and passed away in Hilversum on 27 March 1977. At a young age, he developed an eye disease that left him with only limited sight in one eye. He studied at the Institute for the Blind in Amsterdam, where he completed his secondary education as well as his training as an organ and piano teacher and church organist. After his marriage, he settled in Hilversum, where he became organist of the Grote Kerk.

Teaching was very close to his heart. He also served as an advisor in the acquisition of church organs for several newly built churches.

The Fantasy and Fugue are characterised by a rich harmonic language with many accidentals, which demands a high level of reading skill from the performer. I have added registration indications myself; only a few originate from Groothengel. In my view, the many registration changes greatly enhance the expressiveness of the work.

On behalf of the management and staff, I wish you a blessed Christmas and a healthy and musical 2026.

Kind regards,
André