Composer

:

Gottfried Heinrich Stölzel

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1720

First Performance

:

March 29, 1720

Average_duration

:

01:49:59

Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld is a sacred cantata composed by Gottfried Heinrich Stölzel in the early 18th century. The piece was first performed in 1728 in Gotha, Germany. The cantata is divided into six movements and is scored for soprano solo, choir, and orchestra. The first movement, "Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld," is a chorale that sets the tone for the entire piece. The melody is simple and plaintive, with the choir singing in unison. The soprano soloist enters with a recitative, "O süßer Jesu Christ," which leads into the second movement, an aria for soprano soloist, "O süßer Jesu Christ." The aria is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and the use of a solo violin to accompany the soprano. The third movement is a duet for soprano and alto soloists, "So geht aus Gottes Herrlichkeit." The duet is characterized by its lively, dance-like rhythm and the interplay between the two soloists. The fourth movement is a chorale, "O Jesu, du mein Bräutigam," which features the choir singing in four-part harmony. The fifth movement is an aria for soprano soloist, "Ich bin ein Gast auf Erden." The aria is characterized by its mournful melody and the use of a solo oboe to accompany the soprano. The final movement is a chorale, "Ach Herr, lass dein lieb Engelein," which brings the piece to a close with a prayer for God's protection. Overall, Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld is a beautiful and moving piece of sacred music. Stölzel's use of simple melodies and harmonies, combined with the expressive power of the soprano soloist and choir, creates a sense of intimacy and devotion that is characteristic of the Baroque era. The piece is a testament to Stölzel's skill as a composer and his deep faith in God.

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