Howard Arman - Schütz, Praetorius, Schein & Demantius: 17th-Century Funeral Music (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of 17th-century funeral music with Howard Arman's exquisite compilation, featuring works by Heinrich Schütz, Michael Praetorius, Johann Hermann Schein, and Andreas Demantius. Released on January 1, 1994, under the Berlin Classics label, this album offers a profound and moving journey through the sacred choral and requiem genres, spanning a full hour of captivating performances.

Howard Arman, a renowned conductor and scholar of early music, masterfully guides the ensemble through a selection of pieces that showcase the intricate polyphony and deep spiritual resonance of the Baroque era. The album opens with Schütz's "Musikalische Exequien," a monumental work composed for a funeral service, followed by a series of motets and chorales that highlight the collective's virtuosity and emotional depth.

Standout tracks include "Nacket bin ich von Mutterleibe kommen" from Schütz's "Musikalische Exequien," a powerful and contemplative piece that sets the tone for the album, and "Die mit Tränen säen" from Schein's "Geistliche Chormusik," a poignant exploration of sorrow and redemption. The album also features the hauntingly beautiful "Threnus - Ich will schweigen" and the triumphant "Mit Fried und Freud ich fahr dahin," offering a diverse range of moods and musical expressions.

Arman's meticulous attention to detail and his deep understanding of the historical context bring these works to life, providing a unique insight into the musical and spiritual practices of the 17th century. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.