Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Aug 11, 1726

Publication Date

:

1860

First Performance

:

Aug 11, 1726

Average_duration

:

19:18

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 45, Es ist dir gesagt, Mensch, was gut ist, BWV 45, in Leipzig in 1726. The cantata was premiered on September 29, 1726, as part of the liturgical calendar for the eighteenth Sunday after Trinity. The work is divided into six 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 choral setting of the opening verse of the biblical text from the Book of Micah, "Es ist dir gesagt, Mensch, was gut ist" (It has been told to you, O man, what is good). The choir sings in a homophonic style, with the text set to a simple and memorable melody. The second movement is a duet for soprano and bass, with the soprano singing a joyful melody and the bass providing a steady bass line. The text of this movement is a prayer for God's guidance and protection. The third movement is a recitative for tenor, with the text taken from the Gospel of Matthew. The tenor sings of the importance of following God's commandments and the consequences of not doing so. The fourth movement is an aria for alto, with a text that speaks of the comfort and peace that comes from following God's will. The alto sings a beautiful melody accompanied by the oboe, which provides a counterpoint to the vocal line. The fifth movement is a recitative for bass, with the text taken from the Book of Micah. The bass sings of the importance of humility and obedience to God's will. The final movement is a choral setting of the closing verse of the biblical text, "Was fordert der Herr von dir" (What does the Lord require of you). The choir sings in a joyful and celebratory style, with the text set to a lively and memorable melody. Overall, Cantata No. 45 is a beautiful and uplifting work that speaks of the importance of following God's will and the comfort and peace that comes from doing so. The work is characterized by Bach's masterful use of counterpoint, his skillful handling of the vocal and instrumental forces, and his ability to create memorable melodies that stay with the listener long after the performance has ended.

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