Gottfried August Homilius: Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and reflective world of Gottfried August Homilius' "Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld," a masterful Passionskantate that stands as a testament to the composer's deep spiritual insight and musical prowess. Composed during his tenure as Kreuzkantor in Dresden from 1755 to 1785, this work is a cornerstone of Homilius' extensive oeuvre, which includes over 10 Passions, oratorios, motets, and cantatas. The album, released on January 1, 2007, by Carus, spans 1 hour and 33 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of choral and vocal music that captures the essence of the Passion narrative.

This album features 31 meticulously crafted tracks, each contributing to the overarching theme of redemption and sacrifice. The composition is divided into two parts, each exploring different facets of the Passion story through a blend of chorales, arias, recitatives, and choruses. The opening choral, "Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld," sets the tone with its solemn and introspective melody, while the aria "Wie tödlich schrecken die Gerichte" and the chorus "Israel, hoffe auf den Herrn" showcase the album's dynamic range and emotional depth.

Homilius, a student of Johann Sebastian Bach, brings a unique perspective to this Passionskantate, blending traditional liturgical elements with innovative musical techniques. The album is not just a collection of songs but a cohesive narrative that guides the listener through the trials and tribulations of Christ's final days. The recitatives provide narrative context, while the arias and choruses offer moments of reflection and contemplation.

"Ein Lämmlein geht und trägt die Schuld" is a profound exploration of faith, suffering, and redemption. It is a work that demands attention and invites repeated listening, revealing new layers of meaning with each play. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a deeply moving and intellectually stimulating experience.

1 jan 2007

℗ 2007 Carus

About Gottfried August Homilius

Gottfried August Homilius (1714-1785) was a prominent German composer, cantor, and organist, renowned for his significant contributions to church music in the generation following Johann Sebastian Bach. Homilius is celebrated for his mastery of the empfindsamer style, a deeply expressive and emotive approach to composition. His repertoire includes a wealth of choral works, such as passions, cantatas, and motets, which showcase his profound understanding of vocal writing and harmonic richness. Homilius's career began with his appointment as organist at the Dresden Frauenkirche in 1742, a role that allowed him to develop his unique musical voice and leave a lasting impact on sacred music. His compositions, including the notable "32 Chorale Preludes" and various hymns, have seen a resurgence in recent years, captivating audiences with their emotional depth and technical brilliance.