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Traditional German chorale

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1:01

"Aus tiefer Noth schrei ich zu dir" is a traditional German chorale that was composed in the 16th century. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written by Martin Luther, the famous German theologian and composer. The chorale is also known as "From Depths of Woe I Cry to Thee" in English. The chorale has been used in various musical compositions, including Johann Sebastian Bach's cantata BWV 38 and Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5. It is a hymn of penitence and supplication, expressing the human need for divine mercy and forgiveness. The chorale consists of six stanzas, each with four lines. The melody is simple and plaintive, with a descending melodic line that emphasizes the sense of despair and hopelessness expressed in the text. The harmonization is also simple, with mostly diatonic chords and occasional chromaticism. The first movement of the chorale is slow and solemn, with a steady pulse and a sense of gravity. The second movement is more animated, with a faster tempo and a more rhythmic character. The third movement returns to the slow and solemn character of the first movement, with a sense of resolution and peace. The characteristics of the chorale include its simplicity, its emotional depth, and its religious significance. The text expresses a profound sense of human need and vulnerability, while the melody and harmonization convey a sense of humility and reverence. The chorale has been a source of comfort and inspiration for generations of Christians, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring power and beauty.

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