In 1648 Heinrich Schütz published a collection of 29 motets with five to seven parts titled “Geistliche Chor-Music” (Sacred Choir Music). Here, the term “Chor” (choir) refers not only to a (large) vocal ensemble but, more generally, to a group of musicians, vocal or instrumental. As explained by Schütz in the foreword he published with the collection, all parts of the motets can be performed vocally and/or instrumentally.

This practice, common in Schütz’s time, has been incorporated into Bärenreiter’s new publication. The edition includes the twelve five-part motets at original pitch with basso continuo. In addition, instrumental parts for string and wind instruments can be purchased. These parts, which include the text, serve to support and complement the choral sound “colla parte”. To enable varying tone-colour possibilities, instrumental parts are available in different transpositions.

Of great significance is the detailed foreword on performance practice by Manfred Cordes.

Manfred Cordes is a specialist for the music of the 16th and early 17th centuries. He works as professor for music theory, counterpoint and ensemble and is also rector of the “Hochschule für Künste Bremen”. He performs internationally as the director of the ensemble “Weser-Renaissance Bremen”.