Composer

:

Johann Hermann Schein

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Publication Date

:

1618

Average_duration

:

3:34

'Christ, unser Herr, zum Jordan kam' is a sacred motet composed by Johann Hermann Schein, a German composer of the early Baroque era. The piece is part of his Opella nova, a collection of sacred vocal music published in 1618. The premiere of the piece is not known, but it was likely performed in Leipzig, where Schein was the cantor at the Thomaskirche. The motet is divided into four movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is a chorale setting of the hymn 'Christ, unser Herr, zum Jordan kam', with the melody in the soprano voice and the other voices providing harmonization. The second movement is a duet for soprano and bass, with the text 'Er ward getauft im Jordan'. The third movement is a trio for alto, tenor, and bass, with the text 'Und da er aus dem Wasser stieg'. The final movement is a four-part setting of the chorale melody, with the text 'Das Aug allein das Wasser sieht'. The piece is characterized by its simple, yet expressive melodies and harmonies. Schein's use of homophonic textures and clear, concise phrasing make the text easily understandable. The use of duets and trios in the middle movements adds variety and interest to the piece, while the final movement brings the piece to a satisfying conclusion with a full four-part setting of the chorale melody. Overall, 'Christ, unser Herr, zum Jordan kam' is a beautiful example of early Baroque sacred music, showcasing Schein's skill as a composer and his ability to create expressive and meaningful music within the confines of the Lutheran liturgy.

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