Bach-Gounod Ave Maria

This song is an unusual song. This leider is a composition of two different composers living at very different times. Bach, who lived from 1685 to 1750 wrote a beautiful prelude included in the Well-Tempered Clavier. Yet Charles Gounod, who lived from 1818 to 1893 wrote the lovely melody that we hear. Gounod used Bach's prelude to create this beauty that we usually hear at Christmas time. Ave Maria has many variations created by others, but this is my favorite.

In the past, it wasn't unusual when composers and musicians played on other's music and themes, producing something different or outstanding. It was a part of the creativity of music. Years later was when a well-known Catholic prayer was added as the lyrics that most of us are familiar with today.

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