Classical Music: Schütz Weihnachtshistorie

World premiere recording of masterful Christmas works by Heinrich Schütz in a recently discovered version

Weihnachtshistorie; Magnificat; and motets from his collection Geistliche Chormusik of 1648.

La Capella Ducale
Musica Fiata
Director Roland Wilson
Marie Luise Werneburg (Engel), Tobias Hunger (Evangelist)

Deutsche Harmonia Mundi – 19658882272


Musica Fiata’s newest recording features Heinrich Schütz’s Weihnachtshistorie, probably one of his best-known works. Recently discovered in a Berlin archive, Musica Fiata and La Capella Ducale perform this rarely heard version. It includes significant revisions and new compositions that Schütz made shortly before his death to enhance the emotional depth and musical sophistication of the work.

Roland Wilson founded La Capella Ducale in 1992 as a supplement to Musica Fiata to ensure stylistic unity in the performance of larger works. Both groups demonstrate Schütz’s skill at polyphonic writing. The balanced sounds from Musica Fiata complement the phrasing and textures of the voices beautifully.

The performance of the recorders heralding Die Hirten (the shepherds) is delightful. As the narrator, Tobias Hunger makes a good evangelist, and Marie Luise Werneburg who takes the part of the angel, is engaging.

As an ensemble, the choir catches the atmospheric mood through Schütz's lovely harmonies.

In addition to the Weihnachtshistorie, the recording includes other significant works by Schütz, such as the splendid Magnificat and motets from his collection Geistliche Chormusik of 1648. The performers execute each piece with precision and balance.

The attention to detail and the way the musicians deliver emotional intensity are impressive; Musica Fiata authentically uses historical instruments. Their appealing contributions are charming and enchanting.

This disc highlights the significance and impact of Schütz, who preceded his fellow German compatriot Bach.