Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:24

"Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich" (The day that is so full of joy) is a hymn composed by Johann Sebastian Bach in 1724. It is also known as "Es ist gewisslich an der Zeit" (It is certainly time) and is based on a text by Johann Rist. The hymn was written for the Feast of the Purification of Mary, which is celebrated on February 2nd. The hymn is composed of six verses, each of which is set to the same melody. The melody is simple and joyful, with a lively rhythm that reflects the festive nature of the occasion. The text of the hymn is a celebration of the day of the Purification, which commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple forty days after his birth. Bach's setting of the hymn is for four-part choir and organ. The organ part is relatively simple, providing a harmonic foundation for the choir. The choir sings the melody in unison, with occasional harmonies and counterpoint added for emphasis. The overall effect is one of joy and celebration, with the choir and organ working together to create a festive atmosphere. The hymn is divided into six movements, each corresponding to one of the six verses. The first movement is a simple statement of the melody by the choir, with the organ providing a simple accompaniment. The second movement adds a bit of counterpoint to the melody, with the choir singing in harmony. The third movement is a more elaborate setting of the melody, with the choir and organ working together to create a joyful sound. The fourth movement is a brief interlude for the organ, providing a moment of reflection before the fifth movement, which is the most elaborate setting of the melody. The choir sings in harmony, with the organ providing a rich accompaniment. The final movement is a simple restatement of the melody, bringing the hymn to a joyful conclusion. Overall, "Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich" is a joyful and celebratory hymn, perfectly suited to the occasion of the Feast of the Purification. Bach's setting of the hymn is simple yet effective, with the choir and organ working together to create a festive atmosphere.

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