Heinrich Schütz

Heinrich Schütz, born in 1585, stands as one of the most influential German composers of the early Baroque period, often hailed as the most significant German composer before Johann Sebastian Bach. His prolific career spanned over five centuries of music, leaving behind a legacy of more than 500 surviving works, predominantly sacred music composed for the Lutheran church. Schütz is renowned for introducing the Italian Baroque style to Germany, evolving it from the Renaissance into the early Baroque era. His compositions, including the celebrated German Requiem, have become staples of 17th-century German sacred music, showcasing his mastery and innovation. Schütz's contributions to the musical landscape of his time are immense, making him a pivotal figure in the development of German music.