Motet notes - Schütz

Schütz’ two-part motet "Ego Dormio" is the only setting from the Song of Songs in the collection "Cantiones Sacrae."  The Cantiones Sacrae are Schütz' most Italianate works, so there is a strong Monteverdian quality  to the sensuous and liquid vocal writing. The warmth and expressivity is in stark contrast to Schütz' later, more austere motets.