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About the author
Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck (1562-1621) was a Dutch composer, organist and sought-after teacher. Sweelinck, whose surname comes from his mother's side, was from a family of musicians and organists. He was loyal to his post as Organist of the Oude Kerk in Amsterdam from 1580 until his death. Chiefly known for his keyboard music, which includes toccatas and fantasias, Sweelinck is known for championing a new fugal style and was famed for his improvisations. The north German organ school championed by Sweelinck and his German pupils made a significant impression on later keyboard composition masters such as J. S. Bach. His vocal style, whilst more conservative than his keyboard works, demonstrates a skilful handling of the contemporary contrapuntal choral style.
Summary
for SATTB and organ continuoSweelinck's setting of the Beatitudes is suitable for any Saint's day or the commemoration of the faithful departed. For the words 'Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake', Sweelinck used a powerful chain of suspensions over a rising bass.
Additional text
If you think of Sweelinck as a keyboard composer only, prepare for a welcome surprise! . . .They are composed in a strong polyphonic idiom typical of the late Renaissance. The five voices may be supported by organ continuo (a realization is provided in this edition), but the pieces may be performed successfully a cappella. Beati pauperes is in two main sections (the secunda pars follows a perfect cadence), while O sacrum convivium has a joyful section in triple-time before quadruple metre returns for the ingeniously contrapuntal Alleluias that close the motet. Choirs with the resources and skills to perform these works will surely find them excellent additions to their repertoire.
