Freu dich, du werte Christenheit

Hermann Schroeder (1904-1984) is one of the most important composers of Catholic church music in the 20th century. Apart from more than 100 organ works and masses, he also wrote numerous motets. The present four-part motet Freu dich, du werte Christenheit for mixed a cappella choir (SATB) was written in 1975. This old Resurrection song from the 16th century is based on a setting by the Franco-Flemish composer Johannes des Cleve (around 1529-1582) which has been skillfully transferred by Schroeder to the modern age with subtle harmonies. The tenor voice sings the cantus firmus and is embedded in archaic-seeming sounds typical of Schroeder by the other voices. This three-verse Resurrection song of about five minutes is perfect for church services at Easter.