Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Song

Publication Date

:

1671

Average_duration

:

6:53

Heinrich Schütz's 'Du tust Guts deinem Knechte (Psalm 119: Thet & Jod), SWV 486' is a sacred vocal work composed in the early 17th century. The piece was likely composed during Schütz's time as Kapellmeister at the court of Elector Johann Georg I in Dresden, Germany. The work is structured in two movements, each of which sets a section of Psalm 119. The first movement, 'Thet', is a setting of verses 65-72, while the second movement, 'Jod', sets verses 73-80. The text of the psalm is a meditation on the word of God and the blessings that come from following it. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening verse, "Du tust Guts deinem Knechte, Herr, nach deinem Wort" (You have dealt well with your servant, O Lord, according to your word). This is followed by a choral section in which the voices sing in harmony, reflecting on the goodness of God and the ways in which he has blessed his people. The movement ends with a return to the solo voice, which sings a prayer for God to continue to teach and guide his people. The second movement begins with a choral section in which the voices sing in unison, reflecting on the trials and tribulations that come with following God's word. This is followed by a solo voice singing a prayer for God to strengthen and sustain his people in the face of these challenges. The movement ends with a return to the choral section, in which the voices sing in harmony, reflecting on the hope and joy that come from following God's word. Overall, 'Du tust Guts deinem Knechte' is a beautiful and contemplative work that reflects Schütz's deep faith and his mastery of vocal composition. The piece premiered in the early 17th century and has since become a beloved part of the sacred vocal repertoire.

More....