Albert Lortzing Hymne

Today best known for his comic operas such as Zar und Zimmermann and Der Waffenschmied, Albert Lortzing was also a composer of sacred music. In 1822, inspired by the performances of great choral symphonic works at the Lower Rhine Music Festival, Lortzing, then aged only 21 years old, ventured to set a sacred anthem to music: In his Dich preist, Allmächtiger (Praise to you, Almighty) for four-part choir, soloists and orchestra, his love of opera shines through with memorable melodies, striking instrumentation and an expressive and diverse musical design that conjure up diverse scenes for the listener. The palette ranges from powerful wind passages praising God’s omnipotence to 'classical' fugati and intimate solo and ensemble passages with transparent accompaniment.

The Urtext edition – in fact the first printed version of the work – is based on autograph sources. Drawing on the preparatory work and practical experience of church musician and conductor Wolfgang Helbich, this edition was completed by his son, the musicologist Martin Helbich. Vocal score and performance materials are also available.