Christoph Bernhard
Die sterbenden Lilien
Works Info
Composer:Christoph BernhardGenre:ChoralStyle:ChoralAverage_duration:2:51'Die sterbenden Lilien' is a sacred vocal work composed by Christoph Bernhard, a German composer and music theorist of the Baroque era. The piece was composed in the mid-17th century, and its premiere is not known. The work consists of six movements, each of which is a setting of a biblical text. The movements are as follows: 1. "Ich bin ein rechter Weinstock" (I am the true vine) - This movement is a setting of John 15:1-5, in which Jesus compares himself to a vine and his followers to branches. The music is mournful and contemplative, with long, flowing melodic lines and rich harmonies. 2. "Mein Herz ist bereit" (My heart is ready) - This movement is a setting of Psalm 57:8-11, in which the psalmist praises God for his mercy and faithfulness. The music is more upbeat than the previous movement, with lively rhythms and joyful harmonies. 3. "Ich bin der gute Hirte" (I am the good shepherd) - This movement is a setting of John 10:11-16, in which Jesus describes himself as the shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. The music is gentle and pastoral, with a lilting rhythm and simple, elegant melodies. 4. "Ich bin die Auferstehung und das Leben" (I am the resurrection and the life) - This movement is a setting of John 11:25-26, in which Jesus declares that he is the resurrection and the life. The music is solemn and majestic, with powerful choral passages and rich, full harmonies. 5. "Ich bin das Brot des Lebens" (I am the bread of life) - This movement is a setting of John 6:35-40, in which Jesus declares that he is the bread of life. The music is contemplative and introspective, with hauntingly beautiful melodies and sparse, delicate harmonies. 6. "Ich bin der Weg, die Wahrheit und das Leben" (I am the way, the truth, and the life) - This movement is a setting of John 14:6-7, in which Jesus declares that he is the way, the truth, and the life. The music is triumphant and exultant, with bold, soaring melodies and rich, full harmonies. Overall, 'Die sterbenden Lilien' is a deeply spiritual work that reflects the religious fervor of the Baroque era. The music is characterized by its rich harmonies, flowing melodies, and contemplative mood, and it is a testament to Christoph Bernhard's skill as a composer and his devotion to his faith.More....