Esaias Reusner, German lute player and composer (d. 1679)

Esaias Reusner (the Younger), a name synonymous with lute virtuosity in 17th-century Germany, emerged as a pivotal German lutenist and composer during the heart of the Baroque era. Born on April 29, 1636, in Löwenberg in Silesia—a region that is now known as Lwówek Śląski in modern-day Poland—his life and career spanned a crucial period in musical development, leaving an indelible mark on the repertoire for the baroque lute.

From an exceptionally young age, Reusner displayed prodigious musical talent, inheriting his passion and skill directly from his father, also named Esaias. The elder Reusner, himself a distinguished lutenist, held the esteemed position of lutenist to Prince Henry Wenceslaus of Bernstadt. This early, intensive tutelage laid the groundwork for the younger Esaias's remarkable career. As a child prodigy, he frequently traveled and performed alongside his father, gracing the courts of various European nobles, which not only honed his performance abilities but also exposed him to diverse musical traditions and courtly expectations from a very early age.

Musical Innovations and Compositions

Esaias Reusner the Younger's contributions to the lute repertoire are most notably encapsulated in his two significant collections of lute suites. These were not merely collections of individual pieces but thoughtfully organized sets of dance movements, a common structure in Baroque music. His first major work, Deliciae testudinis (Latin for "Delights of the Lute"), and the later Neue Lauten-früchte ("New Lute Fruits"), showcased his profound understanding of the instrument and his compositional prowess. These collections are considered vital for any study of 17th-century German lute music, demonstrating an innovative approach to harmony and counterpoint tailored specifically for the lute's unique characteristics. He is particularly celebrated as one of the first great masters to fully exploit the capabilities of the 11-course baroque lute in Germany, an instrument that offered a richer harmonic palette and extended bass range compared to earlier lutes.

A Career Forged Through Patronage

Reusner’s professional journey was a testament to the importance of aristocratic patronage for musicians of his era. His career began in earnest with a sustained period of service to the Duke of Silesia, where he resided from 1655 until 1672. This long engagement at a ducal court would have provided stability and ample opportunity for composition and performance. Following this lengthy tenure, he briefly transitioned into an academic role, serving as a respected teacher of both flute and lute at the prestigious University of Leipzig. This demonstrates his versatility and pedagogical skills, as well as the high regard in which he was held. However, the lure of courtly performance remained strong, and in 1674, Reusner secured a highly esteemed appointment as chamber lutenist at the court of Frederick William, the Elector of Brandenburg, in Berlin, Germany. This was a significant position, placing him at the heart of one of the most influential German courts of the time. He remained in Berlin, enriching the Elector's musical establishment with his exceptional talent, until his untimely death on May 1, 1679, at the age of 43.

Lasting Legacy

Despite his relatively short life, Esaias Reusner the Younger left an enduring legacy. He is universally acclaimed as one of the preeminent lute virtuosos of his time, celebrated for his technical brilliance and profound musicality. His pioneering work with the 11-course baroque lute established new benchmarks for performance and composition, solidifying his place as a foundational figure in German lute music and influencing subsequent generations of lutenists and composers. His suites continue to be studied and performed, offering a window into the refined and intricate world of 17th-century Baroque lute music.

Frequently Asked Questions About Esaias Reusner (the Younger)

What instruments did Esaias Reusner the Younger play and teach?
Esaias Reusner the Younger was primarily a master lutenist and composer. He also taught the flute and lute during his tenure at the University of Leipzig, showcasing his versatility.
Where was Esaias Reusner the Younger born?
He was born in Löwenberg in Silesia on April 29, 1636. This location is known today as Lwówek Śląski, situated in modern-day Poland.
What are his most famous musical compositions?
His two most significant and well-known collections of lute suites are Deliciae testudinis ("Delights of the Lute") and Neue Lauten-früchte ("New Lute Fruits"). These works are cornerstones of 17th-century German lute repertoire.
What was an "11-course baroque lute," and why was it significant?
The 11-course baroque lute was an advanced version of the instrument prevalent in the Baroque era. "Courses" refer to pairs of strings, and the 11-course lute featured additional bass strings (usually in single courses) beyond the fingerboard. This design significantly expanded its range and harmonic capabilities, allowing for richer accompaniment and more complex solo pieces. Reusner's mastery of this instrument was pioneering in Germany.
Who was Esaias Reusner's most important patron?
While he served various patrons, his final and most prestigious appointment was as chamber lutenist at the court of Frederick William, the Elector of Brandenburg, in Berlin, where he remained until his death.