Savall's musical training started in the school choir of his native town (1947-55). He later completed his training at the Barcelona Conservatory of Music (1959-65). Afterward, he began his specialisation in early music at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Basel, Switzerland (1968-70).
In 1974 he formed the ensemble Hespèrion XX (since 2000 as Hespèrion XXI), together with the soprano Montserrat Figueras (his wife), Lorenzo Alpert and Hopkinson Smith. Hespèrion XX favored a style of interpretation characterised by great musical vitality and at the same time, maximum historical accuracy.
In 1987 he returned to Barcelona to found La Capella Reial de Catalunya, a vocal ensemble devoted to the interpretation of music prior to the 18th century.
Finally, in 1989 Savall created Le Concert des Nations, an orchestra that is generally dedicated to the baroque repertoire, but which sometimes also serves as an outlet for music that hails from the classical/romantic repertoire (e.g. Sinfonia a Gran Orquesta by Juan Crisótomo de Arriga).
Savall's discography includes more than 140 recordings. Since 1998 he has released his records with his own label, Alia Vox.
Jordi Savall is also a two-time Grammy nominee, who scored the 1991 Alain Corneau film, Tous les matins du monde (also awarded the César of the French film industry in 1992). The soundtrack, re-released on his own Alia Vox label, has sold more than a million copies worldwide.
Markus Passion BWV 247: Choral "Was Menschen Kraft und Witz anfäht"
Jordi Savall Lyrics
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Soll uns billig nicht schrecken,
Er sitzet an der höchsten Stätt,
Er wird ihr’n Rat aufdecken.
Wenn sie aufs klügste greifen an,
So geht doch Gott ein andre Bahn,
Es steht in seinen Händen.
(„Wo Gott der Herr nicht bei uns hält“, Vers 2)
These lyrics come from the choral "Was Menschen Kraft und Witz anfäht" in Jordi Savall's rendition of Markus Passion BWV 247. The song speaks about the power and intellect that humans possess and how it should not intimidate or deter us. It reassures that despite human abilities, there is a higher power seated at the highest place, who will reveal His advice and guidance.
The first verse states that whatever strengths and wits humans possess should not frighten us, for there is someone higher and more powerful than us. This passage suggests that it is natural for us to be awed by human accomplishments and capabilities, but we should not let it overshadow the divine intervention and guidance that come from a higher source.
The line "Er sitzet an der höchsten Stätt" refers to God, who is seated in the highest place. This implies that God is above all human powers and intellect. Regardless of how clever and wise humans may be, they will never surpass the wisdom and guidance that God offers. This reaffirms the belief that humans should not solely rely on their own knowledge and abilities, but rather seek divine counsel and trust in God's plan.
The following verse asserts that even if humans strive for the utmost wisdom and knowledge, God operates in a different manner. God's ways are beyond human comprehension, and His actions may not align with what humans consider to be the wisest approach. Therefore, it is crucial to acknowledge that ultimate control lies in God's hands, and His guidance should be sought before making any decisions or judgments.
In summary, these lyrics emphasize the need to recognize both the power and limitations of human intellect and abilities. While it is natural to be impressed by human achievements, the song reminds us that God is the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. It encourages us to trust in God's plan and seek His counsel rather than relying solely on our own understanding.
Line by Line Meaning
Was Menschen Kraft und Witz anfäht,
The power and ingenuity of humanity may be impressive, but it should not intimidate us.
Soll uns billig nicht schrecken,
We should not be easily frightened by these human abilities.
Er sitzet an der höchsten Stätt,
God is seated in the highest position of authority.
Er wird ihr’n Rat aufdecken.
He will expose and reveal their plans and intentions.
Wenn sie aufs klügste greifen an,
Even when they employ their most clever strategies.
So geht doch Gott ein andre Bahn,
God will still follow a different path, a different course of action.
Es steht in seinen Händen.
Everything is within God's control and power.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Johann Sebastian Bach
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind