Christe Redemptor

John Bull

BaroqueSpecialisttheme-and-variations4/4~3 min

About this piece

This piece represents John Bull's variation work on a plainsong melody, reflecting the sophisticated keyboard writing of the late 16th century. It is distinguished by its highly virtuosic figuration relative to its time period.

What makes it challenging

At Henle 5 this is a late-intermediate piece — technically substantial, with musical demands to match. The main demands: independent voices that must each sing on their own line; ornaments that need to sound effortless, not squeezed in; and precise articulation — the difference between crisp and blurred is the piece.

Beyond that, expect fine finger independence within the hand.

Teacher notes

Maintaining the clarity of the underlying cantus firmus against rapid figuration is the main difficulty.

Technical focus

counterpointornamentationarticulationfinger-independence

Mood

contemplativeintellectual

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

What to play around Christe Redemptor

Similar to Christe Redemptor

Comparable difficulty and character — good candidates for what to learn next.

Easier, same character

A level or two down with the same spirit — ideal if this piece is still out of reach.

The next step up

Where this piece's skills lead: slightly harder works making similar technical demands.

More John Bull, off the beaten path

Lesser-known works by the same hand, at a comparable level.

Browse all Henle level 5 pieces (Late intermediate) →

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Christe Redemptor by John Bull?

Christe Redemptor is rated Henle level 5 of 9 — late intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 6–7. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 7.

What level do I need to play Christe Redemptor?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 5 — meaning you can already play level 4–5 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is Christe Redemptor?

A typical performance of Christe Redemptor lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Christe Redemptor?

Christe Redemptor is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.

What pieces are similar to Christe Redemptor?

Pieces at a comparable difficulty and character include Christe Redemptor, FVB 125 by John Bull, 'Fuga sopra il Magnificat by Johann Sebastian Bach, Ciacona in D minor, P.41 by Johann Pachelbel — see the full similar-pieces list on this page.