Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Song

Publication Date

:

1671

Average_duration

:

5:20

Heinrich Schütz's 'Meine Seele verlanget nach deinem Heil (Psalm 119: Caph & Lamed), SWV 487' is a sacred vocal work composed in the early 17th century. The piece was likely composed during Schütz's time as Kapellmeister at the court of Elector Johann Georg I in Dresden, Germany. The work is structured in two movements, each based on a section of Psalm 119. The first movement, based on verses 81-88 (Caph), is marked "Adagio" and features a solo soprano voice accompanied by a continuo of organ and viola da gamba. The second movement, based on verses 161-168 (Lamed), is marked "Allegro" and features a four-part choir accompanied by the same continuo. The text of the piece is a prayer for salvation and guidance, expressing the psalmist's longing for God's help and protection. Schütz's setting of the text is characterized by its expressive use of dissonance and chromaticism, which serve to heighten the emotional intensity of the text. The solo soprano in the first movement sings with a plaintive, almost mournful tone, while the choir in the second movement sings with a more joyful and triumphant character. The piece premiered in the early 17th century, likely in a church or chapel setting. It has since become a staple of the sacred vocal repertoire, and is frequently performed in concerts and church services. Schütz's 'Meine Seele verlanget nach deinem Heil' is a testament to his skill as a composer of sacred music, and remains a powerful expression of faith and devotion to this day.

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