(version I, 1989)
for counter-tenor, violin and piano
Duration : c. 3'
TOV003c
The tune, although it may sound like a quotation, is in fact original. The text is a passage from the Becker Psalter (published in 1602) – paraphrasing psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd. This original version was written in 1989 on the birthday of Pope John Paul II and is dedicated to him. A second more extended version is also available, for unison female voices, strings and piano.
Der Herr ist mein getreuer Hirt,
dem ich mich ganz vertraue,
Zur Weid er mich, sein Schäflein, führt,
Auf schöner grünen Aue,
Zum frischen Wasser leit' er mich,
Mein Seel zu laben kräftiglich
Durchs sel’ge Wort der Gnaden.
English translation
The Lord is my faithful shepherd,
to whom I entrust myself totally,
He leads me, His lamb, to pasture
in a lovely green meadow,
He leads me to fresh water,
to refresh my soul powerfully
through the blessed word of grace.