description Geistliche Chormusik (Schütz) Overview
Geistliche Chormusik is a collection of 29 German sacred motets by Heinrich Schütz, published in Dresden in 1648. Written mainly for five to seven vocal parts, the pieces demonstrate contrapuntal composition and careful treatment of German biblical and devotional texts. Schütz presented the collection partly as a model for younger composers, emphasizing disciplined part-writing before the addition of concertato techniques and instrumental effects.
help Geistliche Chormusik (Schütz) FAQ
Why did Schütz publish Geistliche Chormusik in 1648?
Schütz presented the collection as a model of rigorous composition without obligatory instrumental accompaniment. Its publication in Dresden in 1648 also coincided with the end of the Thirty Years' War.
How many motets are in Geistliche Chormusik?
The collection contains 29 German sacred motets. Most use five to seven vocal parts and set biblical or devotional texts with close attention to their meaning.
Is Geistliche Chormusik meant to be sung a cappella?
The vocal counterpoint is structurally complete without instruments, so modern choirs often perform it a cappella. In Schütz's period, however, instruments could double or replace vocal lines according to available forces.
Which pieces from Geistliche Chormusik are most frequently performed?
Die mit Tränen säen, Selig sind die Toten, and Verleih uns Frieden are among the collection's familiar motets. Each demonstrates Schütz's ability to turn German scriptural language into sharply expressive choral counterpoint.
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