Johann Schelle’s “Lobe den Herrn, meine Seele” is an imposing 17th-century sacred choral work setting Psalm 103, likely composed around 1683 for a Leipzig thanksgiving service.
It is known for its grand, 25-part scoring (soloists, choir, strings, brass, timpani), highlighting the “Venetian” style of alternating ensembles.
- Composer: Johann Schelle (1648–1701), who was the Thomaskantor in Leipzig before J.S. Bach.
- Structure: It features a complex, multi-part opening, alternating between tutti (full group) and solo sections, concluding with an Alleluia-fugue.
- Instrumentation: The work is highly scored, including 4 trumpets, 3 trombones, 2 cornettini, strings, and continuo.
- Legacy: It is considered one of the most brilliant and varied sacred works of the late 17th century.
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