Et ne despicias humiliter te petentem, SWV 54 (Secunda pars)

This sacred motet for SATB voices sets a Latin text, the second part of a larger work by Heinrich Schütz. The words implore God not to despise the humble supplicant, invoking the holy name of Jesus. Schütz, a master of early Baroque sacred music, crafts a powerful plea, likely intended for a liturgical setting. The composer's skill in setting German and Latin texts is evident, and this motet showcases his ability to convey profound spiritual emotion through vocal polyphony. It stands as a significant example of 17th-century Lutheran motet composition, offering directors a chance to programme a compelling work from this pivotal era of sacred music.