A Hexachordal and Rhetorical Analysis of Heinrich Schütz's 'Sieben Worte Jesu Christi Am Kreuz' (SWV 478)
Author
Wininger, Thomas DwightIssue Date
2019Advisor
Chamberlain, Bruce B.Brobeck, John T.
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The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction, presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
Heinrich Schütz (1585–1672) is considered a transitional figure between the Renaissance and Baroque. Because of this, his music is pluralistic and incorporates elements from both epochs. This paper focuses on two of these elements: his use of musico-rhetorical figures and his hexachordal harmonic approach in his work 'Die Sieben Worte Jesu Christi Am Kreuz,' SWV 478. Musico-rhetorical devices were widely in use in southern Germany and northern Italy during Schütz’s lifetime. The purpose of these devices was to persuade the listener through musical gestures tied to ancient oratory. These gestures are enhanced through harmonic language — in this instance the hexachord system. When combined, these two distinct types of analysis yield a more comprehensive understanding of his dramatic setting of the Seven Last Words of Christ. This comprehensive reading is beneficial for performers who wish to present a dramatic performance of the composition.Type
textElectronic Dissertation
Degree Name
D.M.A.Degree Level
doctoralDegree Program
Graduate CollegeMusic