Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1648

Average_duration

:

4:29

Heinrich Schütz's 'Sehet an den Feigenbaum und all Bäume' is a sacred vocal work composed in 1650. It was premiered in Dresden, Germany, and is part of his larger collection of works known as the 'Geistliche Chormusik'. The piece is written for four-part choir and is based on a biblical text from Luke 21:29-31. The work is divided into two movements. The first movement begins with a lively and joyful choral introduction, which sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The choir sings in unison, "Sehet an den Feigenbaum und all Bäume" (Behold the fig tree and all the trees), before breaking into four-part harmony. The music is characterized by its rhythmic energy and lively melodic lines, which are reminiscent of the Baroque style. The second movement is more contemplative in nature, with the choir singing in a slower tempo and with more expressive phrasing. The text is taken from the same biblical passage as the first movement, and speaks of the coming of the kingdom of God. The music is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive use of dissonance, which creates a sense of tension and release. Overall, 'Sehet an den Feigenbaum und all Bäume' is a beautiful example of Schütz's skill as a composer of sacred vocal music. The piece showcases his ability to create music that is both joyful and contemplative, and his use of harmony and melody to convey the meaning of the text. It remains a popular work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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