Psalm Settings (selected)

Master Dutch Psalm melodies
Develop sacred music character
Execute chorale-style variations
Perfect meditative expression

About This Piece

Composer: Jacob van Eyck (c. 1590-1657)

Difficulty: Late Intermediate

Notes Used: D, E, F#, G, A, B, C, D (high), E (high), F# (high), G (high)

Key: G Major / D Major

Form: Theme and Variations on Dutch Psalm Melodies

Psalm 116 - Theme

The Dutch Reformed psalm melody in simple chorale style.

Variation 1 - Simple Elaboration

Gentle ornamentation respecting the sacred character.

Variation 2 - Meditative Figuration

More elaborate yet still reverent diminutions.

Psalm 140 - Theme

Another beloved Dutch psalm in G Major.

Performance Practice Notes

Sacred character: Maintain reverent, meditative quality
Chorale tempo: ♩ = 65, steady and contemplative
Ornamentation: Tasteful and appropriate to sacred context
Expression: Balance technical skill with spiritual depth

Historical Context

The Dutch Reformed Church used metrical psalms exclusively in worship during van Eyck's time. These psalm melodies were beloved by the Dutch people and formed part of everyday musical life. Van Eyck's position as carillonneur at Utrecht Cathedral meant he played these psalms daily on the bells. His variations for recorder transformed the congregational melodies into meditative solo pieces suitable for private devotion. The variations maintain the dignity and reverence appropriate to sacred music while demonstrating the recorder's suitability for spiritual expression. These pieces represent the intersection of sacred and secular music-making in Dutch Golden Age culture.

Performance Goal: Perform these psalm variations with reverence and meditative character. Balance technical facility with spiritual expression. The variations should enhance rather than obscure the beauty of the original psalm melodies. This completes your study of van Eyck's Der Fluyten Lust-hof, demonstrating the full range of Dutch Baroque variation practice.