Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

May 20, 1725

Publication Date

:

1870

First Performance

:

May 20, 1725

Average_duration

:

18:58

Movement_count

:

8

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 74, Wer mich liebet, der wird mein Wort halten, BWV 74, in 1725. The cantata was premiered on May 20, 1725, in Leipzig, Germany, as part of Bach's second annual cycle of cantatas for the liturgical year. The cantata consists of five movements, including an opening chorus, two recitatives, an aria, and a closing chorale. The text is based on the Gospel of John, Chapter 14, verses 23-31, which emphasizes the importance of keeping God's word and the promise of the Holy Spirit. The opening chorus is a grand and majestic piece, featuring a full orchestra and choir. The music is characterized by its lively rhythms, intricate counterpoint, and soaring melodies. The choir sings the text "Wer mich liebet, der wird mein Wort halten" (Whoever loves me will keep my word), which is repeated throughout the movement. The first recitative is sung by the tenor soloist and features a dialogue between Jesus and his disciples. The music is simple and declamatory, with the tenor singing the words of Jesus and the choir responding as the disciples. The second movement is an aria for the bass soloist, accompanied by a solo oboe and continuo. The music is gentle and introspective, with the bass singing the text "Ich will dich nicht verlassen noch von dir weichen" (I will not leave you or forsake you). The oboe provides a delicate and expressive counterpoint to the vocal line. The second recitative is sung by the alto soloist and features a dialogue between Jesus and the Father. The music is more complex than the first recitative, with the alto singing a more elaborate melody and the choir providing a more intricate response. The final movement is a chorale, sung by the choir and accompanied by the full orchestra. The music is joyful and celebratory, with the choir singing the text "Glorie, Lob, Ehr und Herrlichkeit" (Glory, praise, honor, and majesty) in four-part harmony. Overall, Cantata No. 74 is a masterful work of sacred music, showcasing Bach's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the text and its meaning. The music is characterized by its intricate counterpoint, expressive melodies, and powerful emotional impact, making it a beloved work of the Baroque era and beyond.

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