Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jun 16, 1726

Publication Date

:

1878

First Performance

:

Jun 16, 1726

Average_duration

:

19:54

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 129, Gelobet sei der Herr, BWV 129, in Leipzig in 1726. The cantata was premiered on Christmas Day of the same year at the St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig. The cantata consists of five movements and is scored for four vocal soloists, a four-part choir, and a Baroque orchestra consisting of two oboes, two violins, viola, and basso continuo. The first movement is a festive chorus that opens with a joyful and celebratory instrumental introduction. The choir enters with the words "Gelobet sei der Herr" (Praise be to the Lord) and sings in a lively and rhythmic style. The oboes and violins provide a lively accompaniment, and the basso continuo adds a solid foundation to the music. The second movement is a recitative for the bass soloist, who sings of the birth of Jesus and the joy that it brings to the world. The music is simple and declamatory, with the orchestra providing a gentle accompaniment. The third movement is an aria for the tenor soloist, who sings of the peace that Jesus brings to the world. The music is serene and peaceful, with the oboes and violins providing a gentle and flowing accompaniment. The fourth movement is a recitative for the alto soloist, who sings of the love that God has for humanity. The music is expressive and emotional, with the orchestra providing a sensitive accompaniment. The final movement is a chorale that brings the cantata to a close. The choir sings the hymn "Lob, Ehr und Preis sei Gott" (Praise, honor, and glory be to God) in a simple and straightforward style. The oboes and violins provide a gentle and uplifting accompaniment, and the basso continuo adds a solid foundation to the music. Overall, Cantata No. 129, Gelobet sei der Herr, BWV 129, is a joyful and celebratory work that reflects the spirit of Christmas. The music is lively, rhythmic, and expressive, and the text is filled with praise and thanksgiving for the birth of Jesus.

More....