Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Oratorio

Compose Date

:

1774 - 1780

Publication Date

:

1787

Average_duration

:

74:00

Movement_count

:

22

Movement ....

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's 'Auferstehung und Himmelfahrt Jesu, H. 777, Wq. 240' is a sacred oratorio composed in 1774. The premiere of the work took place on Easter Sunday, April 10, 1774, at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, Germany. The oratorio consists of two parts, each with several movements. The first part of the oratorio depicts the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It begins with a grand chorus, "Auferstehung und Himmelfahrt Jesu," which sets the tone for the entire work. The chorus is followed by a series of recitatives and arias that tell the story of the resurrection. The music is characterized by its dramatic and emotional intensity, with sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo. The second part of the oratorio depicts the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. It begins with a chorus, "Himmelfahrt Jesu," which is more subdued than the opening chorus of the first part. The music in this part of the oratorio is more contemplative and reflective, with a focus on the spiritual significance of the ascension. Throughout the oratorio, Bach's use of harmony and counterpoint is masterful. He employs a wide range of textures, from solo arias to full choruses, and his use of orchestration is particularly effective in creating a sense of drama and emotion. Overall, 'Auferstehung und Himmelfahrt Jesu' is a powerful and moving work that showcases Bach's skill as a composer of sacred music. Its premiere in Leipzig was a great success, and it has since become a beloved piece in the repertoire of choral music.

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