Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Publication Date

:

1611

Average_duration

:

2:36

Heinrich Schütz's 'Feritevi, ferite (Feritevi, viperette mordaci), SWV 9 (Op. 1/9)' is a sacred madrigal for five voices. It was composed in 1611 and premiered in the same year in Venice, Italy. The piece is part of Schütz's first collection of madrigals, 'Il primo libro de madrigali a cinque voci' (The First Book of Madrigals for Five Voices). The piece is divided into two movements. The first movement is a lively and energetic setting of the text 'Feritevi, ferite' (Wound me, wound me), which is repeated throughout the piece. The second movement is a slower and more contemplative setting of the text 'O voi, che sospirate' (Oh you who sigh), which provides a contrast to the first movement. The piece is characterized by Schütz's use of chromaticism and dissonance, which create a sense of tension and drama. The vocal lines are highly expressive and often feature intricate polyphony, with each voice weaving in and out of the texture. The use of word painting is also prominent, with Schütz using musical gestures to illustrate the meaning of the text. Overall, 'Feritevi, ferite' is a striking example of Schütz's early style, which combines the influence of Italian madrigals with his own unique voice. It showcases his skill as a composer of vocal music and his ability to create powerful emotional effects through music.

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