Composer

:

Johann Hermann Schein

Genre

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1617

Average_duration

:

4:54

Ich will schweigen is a sacred vocal work composed by Johann Hermann Schein, a German composer of the early Baroque era. The piece was composed in 1623 and premiered in Leipzig, Germany. It is a four-movement work that is characterized by its use of polyphonic textures and expressive harmonies. The first movement of Ich will schweigen is a motet that features a four-part choir singing in a homophonic style. The text of the motet is taken from Psalm 39 and speaks of the desire to remain silent in the face of adversity. The music is characterized by its use of expressive harmonies and a slow, mournful tempo. The second movement is a chorale that features a four-part choir singing in a polyphonic style. The text of the chorale is taken from a hymn by Martin Luther and speaks of the power of faith to overcome adversity. The music is characterized by its use of imitative counterpoint and a lively tempo. The third movement is a motet that features a four-part choir singing in a polyphonic style. The text of the motet is taken from Psalm 130 and speaks of the need for forgiveness and redemption. The music is characterized by its use of expressive harmonies and a slow, contemplative tempo. The final movement is a chorale that features a four-part choir singing in a homophonic style. The text of the chorale is taken from a hymn by Johann Heermann and speaks of the joy of salvation. The music is characterized by its use of simple harmonies and a lively tempo. Overall, Ich will schweigen is a powerful and expressive work that showcases Schein's skill as a composer. Its use of polyphonic textures and expressive harmonies make it a standout piece of early Baroque music.

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