Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jan 23, 1724

Publication Date

:

1870

First Performance

:

Jan 23, 1724

Average_duration

:

14:22

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 73, Herr, wie du willt, so schicks mit mir, BWV 73, in 1724 during his first year as the Thomaskantor in Leipzig. The cantata premiered on January 16, 1724, the third Sunday after Epiphany, at the St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig. The cantata consists of five movements, including an opening chorus, two recitatives, an aria, and a closing chorale. The text is based on a hymn by Georg Neumark, which reflects on the idea of surrendering oneself to God's will. The opening chorus, "Herr, wie du willt, so schicks mit mir," is a grand and majestic piece that features a full orchestra and choir. The music is characterized by its use of imitative counterpoint, with the choir and orchestra trading off melodic phrases. The first recitative, "Ach senke doch den Geist der Freuden," is a somber and introspective piece that features a solo tenor accompanied by a continuo. The music is characterized by its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which reflect the text's themes of sorrow and repentance. The second recitative, "Drum wenn der Tod zuletzt den Geist," is a more hopeful and optimistic piece that features a solo bass accompanied by a continuo. The music is characterized by its use of rising melodic lines and major harmonies, which reflect the text's themes of acceptance and surrender. The aria, "Mein Gott, wie geht's dir?," is a lively and energetic piece that features a solo soprano accompanied by a full orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and virtuosic vocal lines, which reflect the text's themes of joy and gratitude. The closing chorale, "Herr, ich lasse dich nicht," is a simple and straightforward piece that features the choir singing the hymn tune in unison. The music is characterized by its use of homophonic textures and strong cadences, which reflect the text's themes of steadfastness and devotion. Overall, Cantata No. 73 is a powerful and moving work that showcases Bach's mastery of both vocal and instrumental music. Its themes of surrender, acceptance, and devotion continue to resonate with audiences today.

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