Heinrich Schütz dedicated the Becker Psalter to Hedwig, the Danish widow of the Saxon Elector Christian II, on the second anniversary of his own wife's death, acknowledging their shared grief.
Composition History
Heinrich Schütz's Becker Psalter was his most successful work, measured by the number of printed editions during his lifetime.
Cultural Impact
After its official introduction in 1691 by Johann Georg IV, the Becker Psalter became widely known at the Saxon court, schools, and churches.
Composition History
The Becker Psalter was originally a very personal work for Heinrich Schütz, helping him cope with the grief of losing his second wife, Magdalena.
Performer Biography
The Dresdner Kammerchor, founded in 1985 by Hans-Christoph Rademann, is one of Germany's leading choirs and is known for its complete recording of Heinrich Schütz's works.
Historical Context
The Leipzig theologian Cornelius Becker created his rhyming Psalms of David to make them singable and easily recited, inspired by Martin Luther's belief that 'Whoever sings, prays twice'.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Heinrich Schütz was primarily interested in setting the genuine word of the Bible, especially Martin Luther's translation, rather than rhyming, compressed versions.
