Dieterich Buxtehude was a German composer and organist born around 1637 in Helsingborg, Sweden. He is best known for his contributions to the Baroque music period, particularly in the realm of organ music and sacred vocal compositions. Buxtehude served as the organist at the St. Mary's Church in Lübeck, where he became a central figure in the musical life of the city. His works include a variety of cantatas, oratorios, and chorale settings, showcasing his innovative use of harmony and form. Buxtehude's influence extended to later composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach, who traveled to Lübeck to study his music. His legacy remains significant in the history of Western classical music.