Composer

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Matthias Weckmann

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Keyboard

Compose Date

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before 1675

Average_duration

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32:31

Matthias Weckmann was a German composer and organist of the Baroque era. He was born in 1616 in Thuringia and died in 1674 in Hamburg. He was a student of Heinrich Schütz and worked as an organist in various cities in Germany, including Dresden, Hamburg, and Wolfenbüttel. One of Weckmann's most famous works is his cantata "Es ist das Heil uns kommen her" (Salvation has come to us). The cantata was composed in 1663 and premiered in Hamburg. It is a sacred work that is based on a hymn by Paul Speratus. The cantata consists of six movements, including an opening chorus, three arias, a recitative, and a closing chorale. The opening chorus is a grand and majestic piece that features a full choir and orchestra. The text of the chorus is based on the first stanza of the hymn and proclaims the arrival of salvation. The first aria is a duet for soprano and bass that is accompanied by a solo violin. The text of the aria speaks of the joy and peace that comes with salvation. The second aria is a solo for alto that is accompanied by a solo viola da gamba. The text of the aria speaks of the love and mercy of God. The recitative is a solo for tenor that is accompanied by a continuo. The text of the recitative speaks of the sacrifice that Christ made for humanity. The closing chorale is a simple and beautiful piece that features the full choir and orchestra. The text of the chorale is based on the last stanza of the hymn and speaks of the hope and faith that comes with salvation. Overall, "Es ist das Heil uns kommen her" is a beautiful and powerful work that showcases Weckmann's skill as a composer. The cantata is characterized by its grandeur, beauty, and emotional depth. It is a testament to Weckmann's faith and his ability to express that faith through music.

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