Breitkopf & Hartel Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied (Cantata) - Kuhnau/Erler - SATB Vocal Score

Author/Composer:

KUHNAU, JOHANN

Instrumentation:

SATB ACCOMP

Model #:

EB9329

Composer: Johann Kuhnau (1660-1722)
Editor: David Erler
Format: Vocal Score, Urtext Edition
Voicing: SATB with Piano Reduction

• First Urtext edition of the work
• Small scoring and short performing time
• Special musical language with onomatopoetic effects

Kuhnau's setting of the 98th psalm Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied is a sonorous cantata with the opulent scoring of two trumpets, timpani and a five-part string section. This baroque gem radiates a special brilliance with its virtuoso part writing. The instrumental and vocal groups alternate to aptly portray the rejoicing, singing and music-making to the glory of God sung about in the text. Kuhnau also comes up with effective sound mixes and echo effects, particularly onomatopoetic in the section to verse 7 ("Das Meer brauset", the sea is roaring).

Like many of Kuhnau's other works, this cantata in the form of a psalm concerto has only survived in a score from the music library of the Wolfenbuttel cantor Georg Osterreich (1664-1735). Kuhnau probably conceived Singet dem Herrn as a repertoire piece for particularly prestigious events such as New Year's Day or as festive music, for example for one of the organ consecrations for which he was repeatedly asked to perform in smaller or larger towns in the Leipzig area.
Duration: 12:00

Audio samples: Opella Musica, camerata lipsiensis, cond. Gregor Meyer (cpo, 2018)

Contents:

• 1a. Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied
• 1b. Denn er tut Wunder
• 2. Der Herr lasst sein Heil verkundigen
• 3a. Aller Welt Ende sehen das Heil unsers Gottes
• 3b. Singet, ruhmet und lobet
• 3c. Mit Drommeten und Posaunen
• 3d. Denn er kommt, das Erdreich zu richten
• 3e. Halleluja, halleluja