Scheidt: The Great Sacred Concertos

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and stirring world of Samuel Scheidt's "The Great Sacred Concertos," a remarkable collection of vocal and choral masterpieces that showcase the composer's profound influence on Lutheran music. Born in Halle, Germany, Scheidt, along with his contemporaries Heinrich Schütz and Johann Hermann Schein, forms the triumvirate of the "three great Schs," whose compositions radiated from Middle Germany and left an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

This album, released in 2007, features a meticulous selection of Scheidt's rare concertos, sourced from both original manuscript sources and extensive reconstructions. The performances, led by the esteemed conductor Roland Wilson, are brought to life by the talented ensemble La Capella Ducale and Musica Fiata, ensuring an authentic and captivating listening experience.

Spanning nearly 80 minutes, the album includes iconic works such as "Wies Gott gefällt mirs auch," "Geistliche Konzerte, Book 2: Dialogus. Kommt her, ihr Gesegneten," and "Nun danket alle Gott," among others. Each piece is a testament to Scheidt's mastery of the concerto form and his ability to blend Italian influences with the rich traditions of Lutheran music.

"Scheidt: The Great Sacred Concertos" is a testament to the enduring legacy of Samuel Scheidt, offering a profound exploration of his sacred concertos. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer eager to explore the depths of this genre, this album promises an enriching and spiritually uplifting experience.

1 maart 2007

2007 CPO

About Samuel Scheidt

Samuel Scheidt, a pioneering figure of the early Baroque era, was a German composer, organist, and teacher whose influence resonates through the centuries. Born in Halle in 1587, Scheidt's musical journey began with local instruction before he traveled to Amsterdam to study under the renowned Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck. This formative period shaped his unique style, blending European influences into a distinctive German Baroque sound. Returning to Halle, Scheidt served as organist at the Moritzkirche and later as chapelmaster, leaving an indelible mark on the city's musical landscape. His compositions, ranging from organ suites and chorale preludes to vocal works, showcase his mastery of counterpoint and concerto style, making him a seminal figure in the development of German organ music. Scheidt's legacy endures, inspiring generations of composers and musicians, and his works continue to captivate audiences with their timeless beauty and innovation.