Partita on O Sacred Head, Now Wounded

This partita for String Ensemble is based on the tune HERZLICH TUT MICH VERLANGEN by Renaissance composer Hans Leo Hassler (1564-1612), which is sung to the Lenten hymn "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded." Chorale settings frame this six-movement work while the inner movements employ doleful ostinatos, a quasi-canon, and a bicinium that turns into a trio at the cadences. With anguished and unconventional harmonies, the work begins fortissimo on a second inversion of an F major seventh chord and ends pianissimo eight minutes later on an A major chord. Originally composed for organ, this partita works well for strings and in the context of worship is particularly suited for Lent, Holy Week, or communion services. The print version provides enough parts for a full string orchestra. A version for a smaller string ensemble is also available as is a compatible edition for Woodwind Quintet (S0.112805) and an edition for String Quartet (S0.1195113). For more music and information, visit www.jubalslyre.com/music.