Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Passion

Compose Date

:

Apr 7, 1724

Publication Date

:

1863

First Performance

:

Apr 7, 1724

Average_duration

:

116:20

Movement_count

:

70

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach's St. John Passion, BWV 245, is a sacred oratorio composed in 1724 for the Good Friday Vespers service at the St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig, Germany. The piece is divided into two parts and features a libretto based on the Gospel of John, as well as additional texts from hymns and poetry. The premiere of the St. John Passion took place on April 7, 1724, and was well-received by the congregation. The piece has since become one of Bach's most famous and beloved works, known for its emotional intensity and intricate musical structure. The St. John Passion is divided into 24 movements, including choruses, arias, recitatives, and chorales. The opening chorus, "Herr, unser Herrscher," sets the tone for the piece with its grandeur and solemnity. Other notable movements include the aria "Es ist vollbracht," which features a hauntingly beautiful melody and poignant lyrics, and the chorale "Ruht wohl, ihr heiligen Gebeine," which brings the piece to a peaceful and reflective close. One of the defining characteristics of the St. John Passion is its use of musical symbolism. For example, the opening chorus features a descending chromatic scale that represents the suffering of Christ, while the aria "Ach, mein Sinn" features a repeated descending figure that represents the tears of the narrator. Another notable feature of the St. John Passion is its use of musical dialogue between the Evangelist (narrator) and other characters, such as Jesus and Peter. This creates a sense of drama and urgency that draws the listener into the story. Overall, the St. John Passion is a masterpiece of sacred music that continues to inspire and move audiences today. Its combination of emotional depth, musical complexity, and spiritual significance make it a true testament to Bach's genius as a composer.

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