Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

Jan 22, 1828

Publication Date

:

1966

Average_duration

:

6:29

'Jesu, meine Freude' is a sacred motet composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1830. It was premiered on March 21, 1830, in Berlin, Germany. The piece is divided into eleven movements and is based on a hymn by Johann Franck. The first movement, marked "Jesu, meine Freude," is a chorale setting of the hymn's first verse. The second movement, "Es ist nun nichts Verdammliches," is a fugue that features a lively and energetic theme. The third movement, "Unter deinem Schirmen," is a duet for alto and tenor that is characterized by its gentle and soothing melody. The fourth movement, "Denn das Gesetz," is a fugue that features a more complex and intricate theme. The fifth movement, "Trotz dem alten Drachen," is a trio for alto, tenor, and bass that is marked by its rhythmic drive and intensity. The sixth movement, "Ihr aber seid nicht fleischlich," is a duet for soprano and alto that is characterized by its delicate and ethereal quality. The seventh movement, "Weg mit allen Schatzen," is a fugue that features a lively and playful theme. The eighth movement, "So aber Christus in euch ist," is a quartet for soprano, alto, tenor, and bass that is marked by its rich harmonies and soaring melodies. The ninth movement, "Gute Nacht, o Wesen," is a duet for soprano and alto that is characterized by its gentle and peaceful quality. The tenth movement, "So nun der Geist," is a fugue that features a complex and intricate theme. The final movement, "Weicht, ihr Trauergeister," is a chorale setting of the hymn's final verse that is marked by its triumphant and joyful character. Overall, 'Jesu, meine Freude' is a masterful work that showcases Mendelssohn's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its intricate counterpoint, rich harmonies, and soaring melodies, and is a testament to Mendelssohn's deep faith and devotion.

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