Musikalische Exequien, Op. 7, SWV 279–281, is a sacred funeral music that Heinrich Schütz wrote in 1635 or 1636 for the funeral services of Count Henry II, Count of Reuss-Gera, who had died on 3 December 1635. It is Schütz's most famous work of funeral music.[1] The work was first performed on 14 February [O.S. 4 February] 1636 in the Johanniskirche in Gera.[2]
Herr, wenn ich nur Dich habeTitle page
It comprises three sections:
Concert in Form einer teutschen Begräbnis-Messe (SWV 279)
Canticum Simeonis Herr, nun lässest du deinen Diener (SWV 281)
Henry II had planned the service himself and chose the texts, some of which are scriptural and others of which are from 16th-century Lutheran writers, including Martin Luther himself. He commissioned Schütz to compose the music on the occasion of his death.
Part I, by far the longest part of the work, is scored for SSATTB (2 sopranos, alto, 2 tenors, bass) chorus alternating with small ensembles of soloists. Part II is scored for double choir SATB SATB, and Part III is written for SATTB choir and a trio of soloists. All movements are accompanied by basso continuo.
The work was known to Brahms, as it is thought that he owned a copy of the score;[3] his German Requiem is remarkably similar in content.
The work was the first requiem in the German language.[4]
Recordings
There have been many recordings, making the Exequien the most recorded work of 17th-century German vocal music,[citation needed] including:
Wolff, Christoph (2005). "Bible and Hymnal in Johann Sebastian Bach's Music". In Carl Schalk; Carlos R. Messerli (eds.). Thine the Amen: Essays on Lutheran Church Music in Honor of Carl Schalk. Kirk House Publishers. p. 112. ISBN1-932688-11-0.
