Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1625

Average_duration

:

3:35

Heinrich Schütz's 'Gutes and Barmherzigkeit werden mir folgen, SWV 95' is a sacred vocal work that was composed in the early 17th century. The piece is part of Schütz's larger collection of works known as the Psalmen Davids, which consists of musical settings of all 150 psalms from the Old Testament. 'Gutes and Barmherzigkeit werden mir folgen' is based on Psalm 23, which is one of the most well-known and beloved psalms in the Bible. The text of the psalm speaks of God's protection and provision for his people, using the metaphor of a shepherd caring for his flock. The piece is scored for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and continuo, and is divided into three movements. The first movement is a setting of the first two verses of the psalm, and is marked by a gentle, flowing melody that evokes the pastoral imagery of the text. The second movement is a setting of verses 3-4, and is more somber in tone, reflecting the darker themes of the psalm, such as the valley of the shadow of death. The final movement is a setting of verses 5-6, and is marked by a joyful, triumphant melody that celebrates God's goodness and mercy. One of the most notable characteristics of Schütz's setting of Psalm 23 is its use of word painting. Throughout the piece, the music reflects the meaning of the text in a vivid and expressive way. For example, in the first movement, the melody rises and falls like the hills and valleys of the shepherd's pasture, while in the second movement, the descending chromatic lines suggest the darkness and fear of the valley of the shadow of death. 'Gutes and Barmherzigkeit werden mir folgen' was first performed in Dresden in the early 17th century, and has since become one of Schütz's most beloved and frequently performed works. Its timeless message of God's care and provision for his people continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a true masterpiece of sacred music.

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