Composer

:

Heinrich Schütz

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Madrigal

Publication Date

:

1611

Average_duration

:

3:08

Heinrich Schütz's 'Selve beate, se sospirando, SWV 3 (Op. 1/3)' is a sacred vocal work composed in the early 17th century. The piece was first performed in 1611 and is considered one of Schütz's earliest works. It is part of a collection of madrigals and sacred vocal music that Schütz composed during his time in Italy. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is marked "Lento" and is a mournful lamentation. The second movement is marked "Allegro" and is a lively dance-like piece. The final movement is marked "Adagio" and is a slow, contemplative piece. The text of the piece is taken from a poem by the Italian poet Torquato Tasso. The poem describes the beauty of a forest and the sadness of a lover who is separated from his beloved. Schütz's music captures the melancholy and longing of the poem, as well as the joy and exuberance of the dance-like second movement. The piece is scored for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is accompanied by a basso continuo. The vocal lines are highly expressive and feature intricate harmonies and melodic lines. The basso continuo provides a rich and varied accompaniment, with the harpsichord and cello playing prominent roles. Overall, 'Selve beate, se sospirando, SWV 3 (Op. 1/3)' is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases Schütz's early mastery of vocal music. Its combination of mournful lamentation and lively dance-like sections make it a unique and memorable piece in the early Baroque repertoire.

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