Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:03

"So giebst du nun, mein Jesu, gute Nacht" (Now you bid me, my Jesus, goodnight) is a sacred aria composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is part of his collection of sacred songs known as the "Neumeister Collection," which was compiled by Bach's student Johann Gottfried Neumeister. The aria is cataloged as BWV 412. The composition is believed to have been written in the early 1700s, during Bach's tenure as the court organist in Weimar. It is a simple and elegant piece, with a gentle melody that is accompanied by a continuo of bassoon and harpsichord. The aria is in three movements, with the first and third movements being in the same key of G major. The second movement is in the relative minor key of E minor. The first movement is a gentle lullaby, with the singer bidding farewell to Jesus and asking for his protection during the night. The second movement is more somber, with the singer reflecting on the trials and tribulations of life. The third movement returns to the gentle lullaby theme, with the singer expressing gratitude for Jesus' protection and asking for his continued guidance. The aria is characterized by its simplicity and elegance. The melody is straightforward and easy to follow, with a gentle rhythm that is soothing to the ear. The bassoon and harpsichord continuo provide a subtle and understated accompaniment that complements the singer's voice without overpowering it. Overall, "So giebst du nun, mein Jesu, gute Nacht" is a beautiful and heartfelt expression of faith and devotion. Its gentle melody and simple lyrics make it a popular choice for religious services and concerts, and it remains a beloved piece of sacred music to this day.

More....