Composer

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Matthias Weckmann

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Average_duration

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7:29

Matthias Weckmann was a German composer and organist of the Baroque era. He was born in Thuringia in 1616 and died in Hamburg in 1674. Weckmann was a student of Heinrich Schütz and worked as an organist in Dresden, Nuremberg, and Hamburg. He is known for his vocal and instrumental music, which is characterized by its expressive harmonies and virtuosic keyboard writing. One of Weckmann's most famous works is his cantata "Herr, wenn ich nur dich habe" (Lord, if I have only you). The cantata was composed in 1663 and premiered in Hamburg. It is a sacred work for solo voice, two violins, viola da gamba, and continuo. The text is based on Psalm 73 and expresses the speaker's desire for God's presence and guidance. The cantata is divided into four movements. The first movement is an aria for the solo voice, which sets the tone for the entire work. The music is characterized by its expressive harmonies and virtuosic vocal writing. The second movement is a duet for the two violins, which provides a contrast to the vocal music. The third movement is another aria for the solo voice, which expresses the speaker's longing for God's guidance. The final movement is a chorale, which brings the work to a close with a prayer for God's mercy and grace. Overall, "Herr, wenn ich nur dich habe" is a beautiful example of Weckmann's expressive and virtuosic style. The work showcases his skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and technically impressive.

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