Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Psalm

Publication Date

:

1619

Average_duration

:

6:08

Heinrich Schütz's 'Ich danke dem Herrn (Psalm 111), SWV 34 (Op. 2/13)' is a sacred choral work that was composed in the early 17th century. The piece was first performed in 1619 in Dresden, Germany, and is part of Schütz's collection of sacred works known as the 'Psalmen Davids'. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which reflects the text of Psalm 111. The first movement is a joyful and celebratory setting of the opening verses of the psalm, with the choir singing in unison and accompanied by a lively instrumental ensemble. The second movement is more contemplative, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and accompanied by a more subdued instrumental ensemble. The final movement returns to the joyful mood of the first, with the choir and instrumental ensemble coming together in a triumphant conclusion. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Ich danke dem Herrn' is Schütz's use of word painting, in which the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, in the first movement, the choir sings the word "Halleluja" in a series of ascending and descending scales, creating a sense of exultation and praise. In the second movement, the choir sings the word "gedenken" (remember) in a slow and mournful melody, reflecting the solemnity of the text. Overall, 'Ich danke dem Herrn' is a masterful example of Schütz's skill as a composer of sacred music. Its combination of joyful celebration and contemplative reflection, along with its use of word painting, make it a powerful and moving work that continues to be performed and admired today.

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