Schütz: Motets and Concertos

Immerse yourself in the rich Baroque soundscape of Heinrich Schütz's "Motets and Concertos," a captivating collection of sacred music that showcases the composer's mastery and innovation. This album, released in 1988 under the Archiv Produktion label, offers a compelling journey through Schütz's diverse musical expressions, from joyous wedding motets to profound funeral music.

The album opens with the lively "Freue dich des Weibes deiner Jugend," a celebratory piece that sets a cheerful tone. It continues with a variety of motets and concertos, including the dramatic "Saul, Saul, was verfolgst du mich?" and the poignant "Auf dem Gebirge hat man ein Geschrei gehöret." The centerpiece of the album is the "Musikalische Exequien," a three-part funeral music that exemplifies Schütz's ability to convey deep emotion and spiritual depth.

Conducted by the renowned John Eliot Gardiner, this album features a stellar ensemble of performers, including Ashley Stafford, Michael Chance, and Frieder Lang. Their interpretations bring Schütz's compositions to life, highlighting the intricate polyphony and expressive melodies that characterize his work.

With a duration of 50 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Schütz's contributions to the Baroque era. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, "Motets and Concertos" offers a rewarding listening experience that underscores the timeless beauty of Heinrich Schütz's music.