CCCI. SCHÜTZ, Heinrich: Psalmen Davids, Psalm #128: Wohl dem, der den Herren fürchtet

 CCCI. SCHÜTZ, Heinrich (1585-1672)

Psalmen Davids, Psalm #128: Wohl dem, der den Herren fürchtet (1619)
Regensburger Domspatzen
Hanns-Martin Schneidt, cond.
(3:38)

We can imagine the antiphony (call-and-response) inherent in these works. Trumpets and trombones double the voices, and -- like Giovanni Gabrieli -- with whom Schütz had studied, the music was meant to echo and resound throughout the huge cathedrals in which they were performed.

This one is written in eight parts:

Happy are all who fear the LORD,
Who follow His ways.
You shall enjoy the fruit of your labors;
You shall be happy and you shall prosper,
Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine within your house;
Your sons, like olive saplings around your table.
So shall the man who fears the LORD be blessed.

May the LORD bless you from Zion;
May you share in the prosperity of Jerusalem
All the days of your life
And live to see your children's children.
May all be well with Israel!