Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:43

Johann Sebastian Bach composed "Gib dich zufrieden und sei stille (I), BWV 315" in the early 18th century. The piece is a chorale cantata, which is a type of sacred vocal music that was popular in the Lutheran church during Bach's time. The cantata is based on a hymn by Georg Neumark, which was first published in 1657. The premiere of "Gib dich zufrieden und sei stille (I), BWV 315" is not known, but it was likely performed in Leipzig, where Bach was the director of music at the Thomaskirche. The cantata consists of four movements, which are performed without a break: 1. Chorus: "Gib dich zufrieden und sei stille" - The opening movement is a lively chorus that sets the tone for the entire cantata. The music is joyful and optimistic, with a strong sense of rhythm and melody. 2. Aria: "Ich traue seiner Gnaden" - The second movement is a solo aria for alto voice. The music is more introspective and reflective than the opening chorus, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. 3. Recitative: "So sei nun, Seele, deine" - The third movement is a recitative for bass voice. The music is declamatory and dramatic, with the bass singer delivering a message of comfort and reassurance to the listener. 4. Chorale: "Ich hab für mir ein schwere Reis" - The final movement is a chorale, which is a simple hymn-like setting of the original hymn text. The music is peaceful and serene, with a sense of resolution and closure. Overall, "Gib dich zufrieden und sei stille (I), BWV 315" is a beautiful example of Bach's sacred vocal music. The cantata is characterized by its joyful and optimistic tone, as well as its complex harmonies and intricate musical textures. The piece is a testament to Bach's skill as a composer and his deep faith in God.

More....