Composer

:

Johann Hermann Schein

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1618

Average_duration

:

3:33

Johann Hermann Schein's 'Jesu Christe, Gottes Sohn' is a sacred choral work that was composed in the early 17th century. It is part of his Opella Nova collection, which was published in 1618. The piece is the sixth movement of the first part of the collection. 'Jesu Christe, Gottes Sohn' is a four-part choral work that is written in the style of a motet. The text is in German and is a hymn to Jesus Christ. The piece begins with a simple and solemn melody that is sung by the basses. The other voices then enter one by one, creating a rich and harmonious texture. The piece is characterized by its use of imitative polyphony, where each voice takes turns singing the same melody. The piece is divided into two sections, with the first section being in a minor key and the second section being in a major key. The change in key reflects the change in mood of the text, which moves from a lamentation of Christ's suffering to a celebration of his resurrection. 'Jesu Christe, Gottes Sohn' premiered in Leipzig in 1618, where Schein was the cantor at the Thomaskirche. The piece was well-received and became a popular addition to Lutheran church services. Overall, 'Jesu Christe, Gottes Sohn' is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Schein's skill as a composer. Its use of imitative polyphony and its change in key reflect the emotional journey of the text, making it a powerful addition to any sacred music repertoire.

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