Composer

:

Johann Hermann Schein

Genre

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1626

Average_duration

:

5:57

Johann Hermann Schein's 'Mach dich auf, werde licht, Zion' is a sacred motet that was composed in the early 17th century. It is part of his Opella Nova, which is a collection of sacred vocal music that was published in 1618. The motet is the eighth piece in the second part of the Opella Nova. The premiere of 'Mach dich auf, werde licht, Zion' is not known, but it is believed to have been performed in Leipzig, where Schein was the cantor at the Thomaskirche. The motet is written for four voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is based on a text from the Book of Isaiah. The motet is divided into three movements. The first movement is a lively and joyful setting of the text "Mach dich auf, werde licht, Zion" (Arise, shine, Zion). The music is characterized by its rhythmic energy and the use of imitative counterpoint between the voices. The second movement is a more contemplative setting of the text "Denn es wird dein licht kommen" (For your light has come). The music is slower and more introspective, with a focus on the beauty of the vocal harmonies. The final movement returns to the joyful mood of the first movement, with a setting of the text "Und die Herrlichkeit des Herrn" (And the glory of the Lord). The music is characterized by its lively rhythms and the use of imitative counterpoint between the voices. Overall, 'Mach dich auf, werde licht, Zion' is a beautiful example of Schein's skill as a composer of sacred vocal music. The motet is characterized by its lively rhythms, beautiful vocal harmonies, and use of imitative counterpoint. It is a testament to Schein's ability to create music that is both joyful and contemplative, and it remains a beloved piece of sacred music to this day.

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