Despite the central role of the organ in the life of Johann Wilhelm Hässler (1747-1822), he dealt with the organ only occasionally as a composer. The 'Acht und vierzig kleine(n) Orgelstücke, theils zu Choral=Vorspielen beim öffentlichen Gottesdienst, theils zur Privatübung für angehende Orgelspieler und Schulmeister auf dem Lande bestimmt', as says the original title, represent the entire output of his organ works. In many of these short pieces, Hässler developed a miniature-like, facet-like form combining Baroque elements with a sentimental gesture and sometimes giving an idea of a Romantic character piece.