Composer

:

Orlande de Lassus

Genre

:

Vocal

Publication Date

:

1590

Average_duration

:

4:27

'Von Gott will ich nit lassen' is a sacred motet composed by Orlande de Lassus, a prominent composer of the Renaissance era. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the late 16th century. The piece is also known as 'Ich hab für mir ein schwere Reis' and is catalogued as S. xx/134. The motet is written for four voices, with the text in German. It is a setting of a hymn by Ludwig Helmbold, a German Lutheran pastor and hymn writer. The piece is in three movements, with the first and third movements being in duple meter and the second movement in triple meter. The first movement begins with a homophonic texture, with all four voices singing in unison. The texture then becomes more complex, with imitative polyphony and overlapping phrases. The second movement is a contrast to the first, with a slower tempo and a more contemplative mood. The third movement returns to the faster tempo and more complex texture of the first movement, with the voices weaving in and out of each other. The piece is characterized by its expressive harmonies and use of dissonance. Lassus employs chromaticism and unexpected chord progressions to create a sense of tension and release. The use of word painting is also prominent, with the music reflecting the meaning of the text. For example, the phrase "Ich hab für mir ein schwere Reis" (I have before me a difficult journey) is set to a descending melody, creating a sense of heaviness and burden. Overall, 'Von Gott will ich nit lassen' is a masterful example of Lassus' skill as a composer. The piece showcases his ability to create complex textures and expressive harmonies while still maintaining clarity and coherence. It remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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