Composer

:

Gottfried August Homilius

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:14

Gottfried August Homilius was a German composer and church musician of the late Baroque era. He was born in Rosenthal, Saxony, on February 2, 1714, and died in Dresden on June 2, 1785. Homilius was a prolific composer, and his works include over 200 cantatas, 12 passions, and numerous other sacred works. One of Homilius's most famous works is his cantata "Siehe, des Herrn Auge," which was composed in 1765. The cantata is based on a text from the book of Jeremiah, and it is scored for four-part choir, soloists, and orchestra. The cantata is divided into three movements. The first movement is a choral fugue, which begins with a lively instrumental introduction. The choir then enters with the text "Siehe, des Herrn Auge sieht auf alle, die ihn fürchten" ("Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon all those who fear him"). The fugue is complex and intricate, with each voice entering in turn and weaving together in a complex web of counterpoint. The second movement is a duet for soprano and alto, accompanied by a solo violin. The text is "Ich will dich nicht verlassen noch von dir weichen" ("I will not leave you nor forsake you"). The duet is tender and intimate, with the two voices intertwining in a beautiful melody. The final movement is a choral setting of the text "Ich will euch trösten, wie einen seine Mutter tröstet" ("I will comfort you as a mother comforts her child"). The choir sings in unison, with the orchestra providing a rich and full accompaniment. The movement is joyful and uplifting, with a sense of hope and comfort. Overall, "Siehe, des Herrn Auge" is a beautiful and complex work, showcasing Homilius's skill as a composer. The cantata is characterized by intricate counterpoint, rich harmonies, and a sense of intimacy and comfort. It premiered in Dresden in 1765 and has since become a beloved work in the choral repertoire.

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