Composer

:

Christoph Bernhard

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

10:25

'Herr, nun lässest du deinen Diener' is a sacred vocal work composed by Christoph Bernhard, a German composer and music theorist of the Baroque era. The work was composed in the mid-17th century and is believed to have been premiered in Dresden, Germany. The work is a setting of the Nunc Dimittis, a canticle from the Gospel of Luke, which is traditionally sung at the end of a church service. The work is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is characterized by its simple yet expressive melodies and harmonies. The work is divided into three movements. The first movement begins with a solo soprano singing the opening lines of the Nunc Dimittis, "Herr, nun lässest du deinen Diener in Frieden fahren" (Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace). The other voices gradually join in, creating a rich and harmonious texture. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful cadence. The second movement is a duet for alto and tenor, which begins with the words "Denn meine Augen haben deinen Heiland gesehen" (For mine eyes have seen thy salvation). The duet is characterized by its gentle and flowing melody, which is accompanied by a simple and elegant bass line. The final movement is a four-part setting of the Nunc Dimittis, which begins with a lively and joyful melody. The voices weave in and out of each other, creating a complex and intricate texture. The movement ends with a triumphant and exultant cadence, which brings the work to a close. Overall, 'Herr, nun lässest du deinen Diener' is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Christoph Bernhard's skill as a composer. Its simple yet elegant melodies and harmonies make it a popular choice for church services and concerts to this day.

More....