Heinrich Schütz was a German composer born in 1585, known for his significant contributions to early Baroque music. He is often regarded as the most important German composer before Johann Sebastian Bach. Schütz studied in Venice under the famous composer Giovanni Gabrieli, which greatly influenced his style. Schütz's works include sacred music, such as his famous Psalmen, and he is celebrated for his ability to convey emotion through music. His compositions helped lay the groundwork for future German choral music and established a distinct national style that blended Italian influences with German traditions.