Composer

:

Samuel Scheidt

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1620

Average_duration

:

2:46

'Herr, wie lang willst du mein so gar vergessen' is a sacred vocal work composed by Samuel Scheidt, a German composer and organist of the early Baroque era. The work is based on Psalm 13, which is a lamentation of the psalmist to God, asking how long he will be forgotten and left in distress. The composition is believed to have been composed in the early 17th century, during Scheidt's tenure as the court organist in Halle. The work is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is scored for a small ensemble of instruments, including two violins, two violas, and continuo. The work is divided into three movements, each of which reflects the mood and sentiment of the psalmist's words. The first movement is a somber and introspective aria, in which the psalmist laments his abandonment by God. The second movement is a lively and joyful dance-like aria, in which the psalmist expresses his faith in God's mercy and salvation. The final movement is a chorale, in which the psalmist offers a prayer of thanksgiving and praise to God. The work is characterized by its expressive and emotive vocal writing, which is supported by a rich and varied instrumental accompaniment. Scheidt's use of dissonance and chromaticism in the vocal lines creates a sense of tension and urgency, while the instrumental parts provide a colorful and dynamic backdrop. The work is also notable for its use of word painting, in which the music reflects the meaning and emotion of the text. 'Herr, wie lang willst du mein so gar vergessen' was premiered during Scheidt's lifetime and has since become a staple of the sacred vocal repertoire. Its powerful and moving expression of faith and devotion continues to resonate with audiences today.

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