Heinrich-Schütz-Haus (Weißenfels)

In the charming town of Weißenfels, nestled in the heart of Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany, lies the Heinrich-Schütz-Haus, a gem of historical and cultural significance. This house, which served as the residence of the illustrious composer Heinrich Schütz from 1651 until shortly before his death in 1670/71, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. As the only largely preserved original residence of the composer, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and works of one of Germany’s most influential musicians.

The Historical Journey of Heinrich-Schütz-Haus

The Heinrich-Schütz-Haus has a rich history that dates back to its construction around 1552, during the Renaissance period. It wasn’t until 1956, however, that the house began its transformation into a place of remembrance for Heinrich Schütz. The Weißenfels city archivist, Adolf Schmiedecke, established a small memorial within the house, which was later relocated to a room in the nearby Neu-Augustusburg Castle during the 1970s, as the house was still inhabited at that time.

In the mid-1980s, extensive reconstruction and restoration efforts were undertaken to commemorate the 400th birthday of Heinrich Schütz. These efforts culminated in the establishment of the Weißenfels Music Memorial within the house. By 1994, the permanent exhibition was redesigned to focus on Schütz’s later works and his connections to Weißenfels. The Heinrich-Schütz-Haus has been under the stewardship of the Weißenfels Music Association Heinrich Schütz e. V. since 2003 and was recognized in 2006 by the German Federal Government as a site of significant national cultural importance. Following a monument-appropriate renovation, the house reopened in 2012 with a modern, interactive permanent exhibition.

Exploring the Exhibition and Collections

Visitors to the Heinrich-Schütz-Haus can immerse themselves in a comprehensive exhibition that delves into the life and achievements of Heinrich Schütz. The restored composing room is a highlight, featuring two music fragments discovered within the house, penned by Schütz himself. Through sound examples and films, guests can gain an understanding of the composer’s intricate methods and musical genius.

An architectural path guides visitors through the house, drawing attention to its valuable structural details. The museum also houses a collection of Schütziana from the Weißenfels Museum and the musical collection of the former Ephoral Library Weißenfels (WFe). The Heinrich-Schütz-Haus is dedicated to the scholarly exploration of Schütz’s life and works, as well as the music of the Weißenfels princely court and the town's civic music culture, particularly at the St. Mary’s Church.

Remarkable Discoveries

The Heinrich-Schütz-Haus has been the site of several significant discoveries. In October 2010, two text fragments from a lost composition, including a setting of Psalm 10, were found during the house’s renovation. These fragments date back to the period between 1650 and 1660.

In 2013, Leipzig Bach researcher Peter Wollny unearthed an unknown manuscript by Johann Sebastian Bach within the house. This autograph, a copy of a mass by Italian composer Francesco Gasparini, was found among the collection of the former Ephoral Library Weißenfels. Although Bach served as a composer for the Weißenfels court from 1713 and held the title of court conductor “from home” from 1729 to 1736, the manuscript is believed to be unrelated to his work in Weißenfels. Instead, it is thought to have been created around 1740 for performances in Leipzig’s main churches, St. Thomas and St. Nicholas. This discovery supports the theory that parts of the Weißenfels music collection originated from Leipzig, likely brought by Weißenfels cantors who trained in the Leipzig Thomanerchor and at Leipzig University.

Unveiling the Treasures

Among the treasures of the Heinrich-Schütz-Haus is the Ephoral Library’s musical collection, which the house took over in 2005 as a loan from the Evangelical Church Community. This collection is made accessible for research and musical practice, providing valuable insights into the musical heritage of Weißenfels and beyond. The Bach manuscript, found within the performance materials for an anonymous mass, includes four of thirteen parts written by Bach himself, with the remaining parts copied by a scribe. This arrangement, featuring enhanced string and wind parts added by Bach, evidently captured the interest of Weißenfels cantors, who collected numerous works with rich wind arrangements for major and festive services at St. Mary’s Church in Weißenfels.

The Heinrich-Schütz-Haus is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the life and works of Heinrich Schütz while fostering a deeper appreciation for the historical and musical heritage of Weißenfels. Whether you are a music enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this remarkable house offers an enriching and unforgettable experience.