Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:16

'Die Nacht ist kommen, BWV 296' is a sacred vocal work composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. The piece is a chorale, which is a type of hymn that was commonly used in Lutheran worship services. The text of the chorale is based on a poem by Johann Rist, which describes the coming of night and the need for God's protection and guidance. Bach composed 'Die Nacht ist kommen' in Leipzig, Germany, in the early 18th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1723 and 1735. The piece was likely composed for use in a Lutheran church service, as was common for Bach's sacred vocal works. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different stanza of the chorale text. The first movement is a simple, homophonic setting of the first stanza, with the choir singing the melody in unison and the organ providing accompaniment. The second movement is a more complex setting of the second stanza, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the organ providing a more elaborate accompaniment. The third movement is a duet for soprano and bass, which sets the third stanza of the chorale. The two voices sing in counterpoint, with the soprano singing a melody that is distinct from the bass line. The organ provides a simple accompaniment, with occasional interjections that echo the vocal lines. The final movement is a four-part setting of the fourth stanza, with the choir singing in harmony and the organ providing a more elaborate accompaniment than in the first movement. The piece ends with a simple, homophonic setting of the final line of the chorale, which emphasizes the need for God's protection and guidance in the face of the coming night. Overall, 'Die Nacht ist kommen, BWV 296' is a relatively simple and straightforward chorale setting, with a focus on clear vocal lines and a supportive organ accompaniment. The piece is notable for its use of counterpoint in the duet movement, which adds a sense of complexity and depth to the otherwise simple harmonies.

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