Composer

:

Johann Hermann Schein

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1618

Average_duration

:

2:42

Johann Hermann Schein's "Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir" is a sacred motet that was composed in 1623. It was premiered in Leipzig, Germany, where Schein was the Kapellmeister at the Thomaskirche. The piece is part of Schein's Opella nova, which is a collection of sacred vocal music that was published in 1618. The motet is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different verse of Psalm 130. The first movement is a setting of the first verse, "Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir" (Out of the depths I cry to you). It is a somber and introspective piece that begins with a solo voice singing the opening phrase. The other voices gradually join in, creating a rich and complex texture that builds to a powerful climax. The second movement is a setting of the second verse, "Herr, höre meine Stimme" (Lord, hear my voice). It is a more hopeful and uplifting piece that features a lively and rhythmic melody. The voices are arranged in a call-and-response pattern, with the choir singing the main melody and the soloists responding with a series of short phrases. The third movement is a setting of the third verse, "So du, Herr, willst merken" (If you, Lord, should mark iniquities). It is a slower and more contemplative piece that features a simple and elegant melody. The voices are arranged in a homophonic texture, with all the voices singing the same melody at the same time. The final movement is a setting of the fourth verse, "Ich harre des Herrn" (I wait for the Lord). It is a joyful and exuberant piece that features a lively and energetic melody. The voices are arranged in a complex and intricate texture, with each voice part weaving in and out of the others to create a rich and vibrant sound. Overall, "Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir" is a powerful and moving piece of sacred music that showcases Schein's skill as a composer. Its rich and complex textures, intricate harmonies, and beautiful melodies make it a timeless masterpiece of the Baroque era.

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