Andreas Hammerschmidt - Andreas Hammerschmidt: Verleih uns Frieden (LP)

Dive into the sacred vocal music of the Baroque era with Andreas Hammerschmidt's "Verleih uns Frieden," a captivating collection of spiritual works that showcase the composer's mastery of the chorale concertato style. Released in 2011 by Rondeau Production, this album spans nearly 80 minutes and features 19 tracks that blend vocal and instrumental pieces, offering a comprehensive exploration of Hammerschmidt's religious compositions.

The album opens with "Verleih uns Friede genädiglich," a powerful chorale concertato that sets the tone for the spiritual journey that follows. Throughout the album, Hammerschmidt's works are brought to life by the Himlische Cantorey, Johann Rosenmüller Ensemble, Knabenchor Hannover, and other talented musicians, all conducted by Jörg Breiding. The ensemble's performance is complemented by the skillful playing of Jörg Meder on the violone, adding depth and richness to the recordings.

"Verleih uns Frieden" features a mix of sonatas, chorale concertatos, and other vocal works that highlight Hammerschmidt's ability to blend German Lutheran chorales with Italian-influenced compositional techniques. The album includes well-known pieces such as "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland" and "Sei willkommen Jesulein," as well as lesser-known works like "Ich fahre auf zu meinem Vater" and "Gott, mein Herz ist bereit." Each track offers a unique perspective on Hammerschmidt's religious beliefs and his approach to sacred music.

The album's diverse instrumentation and vocal arrangements create a dynamic listening experience, with each piece showcasing the composer's ability to adapt his style to suit the text and the occasion. From the contemplative "Warum betrübst du dich, mein Herz" to the jubilant "Jauchzet dem Herren, alle Welt," "Verleih uns Frieden" offers a comprehensive overview of Andreas Hammerschmidt's sacred vocal music, making it an essential addition to any Baroque music enthusiast's collection.