Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Dec 22, 1715

Publication Date

:

1881

First Performance

:

Dec 22, 1715

Average_duration

:

19:02

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 132, Bereitet die Wege, bereitet die Bahn, BWV 132, in 1715 for the fourth Sunday of Advent. The cantata is scored for four vocal soloists, a four-part choir, and a small orchestra consisting of two oboes, strings, and continuo. The cantata is divided into five movements. The first movement is an aria for bass soloist, "Bereitet die Wege, bereitet die Bahn," which translates to "Prepare the ways, prepare the path." The aria is characterized by a lively and energetic rhythm, with the bass soloist singing of the need to prepare the way for the Lord. The second movement is a recitative for tenor soloist, "Wer bist du?" or "Who are you?" The tenor soloist questions the identity of the one who is coming, and the recitative is characterized by a more contemplative and introspective mood. The third movement is an aria for alto soloist, "Jesu, mach' dich auf, werde Licht," or "Jesus, arise, become light." The aria is characterized by a more somber and reflective mood, with the alto soloist singing of the need for Jesus to come and bring light to the darkness. The fourth movement is a duet for soprano and bass soloists, "Wir Christenleut," or "We Christian people." The duet is characterized by a joyful and celebratory mood, with the soprano and bass soloists singing of the joy of the coming of the Lord. The final movement is a chorale, "Streite, siege, starker Held," or "Fight, conquer, mighty hero." The chorale is characterized by a triumphant and exultant mood, with the choir and orchestra joining together to sing of the victory of the Lord. Overall, Cantata No. 132 is a beautiful and powerful work that captures the spirit of Advent and the anticipation of the coming of the Lord. Bach's masterful use of vocal and instrumental textures, as well as his skillful handling of the text, make this cantata a true masterpiece of Baroque music.

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