Brahms wrote these motets at the same time as the Fest- und Gedenksprüche, Opus 109, and as part of the same inspiration. This set, however, was more indebted to the musical inspiration occasioned by the publication of Phillip Spitta's edition of Heinrich Schütz's large choral works than by the political events behind the Opus 109. As a whole, these pieces are longer, more serious and more complex than the previous set.

1. Ich aber bin elend (I Am but Poor and Sorrowful). Antiphonal psalmody and choral recitative dominate this motet, which was clearly and overtly based on the techniques of Schütz. There are three sections, with no repetition.

2. Ach, arme Welt (Ah, Poor World) is primarily a homophonic, strophic setting of the depressing text. The music is appropriately subdued.

3. Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein (When We Are in Deepest Need) is divided into four stanzas. The first one is an antiphonal setting of a chorale-like melody, which Brahms repeats, slightly varied, for the third stanza. The second stanza is homophonically set and is likewise elaborated for the fourth stanza.



© All Music Guide