Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Nov 24, 1715

Publication Date

:

1887

First Performance

:

Nov 24, 1715

Average_duration

:

15:36

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 163, Nur jedem das Seine!, BWV 163, in 1715 during his tenure as the court musician in Weimar. The cantata premiered on the 23rd Sunday after Trinity, November 24, 1715, at the court chapel in Weimar. The cantata consists of five movements, including an opening chorus, two arias, a recitative, and a closing chorale. The text is based on the Gospel reading for the day, Matthew 22:15-22, which tells the story of the Pharisees' attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. The opening chorus, "Nur jedem das Seine," is a lively and joyful piece that features a fugue and a lively dance-like rhythm. The two arias, "Gottes Wort, das trüget nicht" and "Falscher Welt Schein, ich bin dein," are both introspective and contemplative, with the former featuring a solo violin and the latter a solo oboe. The recitative, "So aber Christus in euch ist," is a dialogue between the bass soloist and the choir, and the closing chorale, "Gib, dass ich tu mit Fleiß," is a simple and straightforward hymn. The cantata's overall tone is one of joy and gratitude, with a focus on the idea that each person should receive what is rightfully theirs. The music is characterized by Bach's signature use of counterpoint, complex harmonies, and intricate instrumental parts. The cantata is a testament to Bach's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally moving.

More....