All mein Anfang

Orlando di Lasso, a leading composer of the late Renaissance, wrote this German sacred song for SATB choir. It belongs to the tradition of German Lieder. The text expresses a profound sense of personal misfortune and a plea for divine assistance. The singer laments a lack of good fortune and seeks solace and protection from God, praying to overcome adversity and be freed from all accidents. Lasso's setting captures the earnest and personal nature of the prayer, with the polyphonic texture providing a rich backdrop to the devotional message.