Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jan 30, 1735

Publication Date

:

1852

First Performance

:

Jan 30, 1735

Average_duration

:

16:51

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 14, Wär Gott nicht mit uns diese Zeit, BWV 14, in 1735. The cantata premiered on August 24, 1735, in Leipzig, Germany, as part of the church service at St. Nicholas Church. The cantata consists of six movements, including an opening chorus, three arias, a recitative, and a closing chorale. The text of the cantata is based on Psalm 124, which speaks of God's protection and deliverance. The opening chorus, "Wär Gott nicht mit uns diese Zeit," is a powerful and dramatic piece that features a full choir and orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of strong rhythms and harmonies, as well as its intricate counterpoint. The first aria, "Unsre Stärke heißt zu schwach," is a solo for bass voice accompanied by a solo violin. The music is gentle and introspective, with a sense of longing and vulnerability. The second aria, "Gleichwie die wilden Meereswellen," is a solo for alto voice accompanied by a solo oboe. The music is characterized by its flowing, undulating rhythms, which evoke the image of the sea. The third aria, "Dennoch bleibet, wenn der Kampf," is a solo for tenor voice accompanied by a solo flute. The music is characterized by its lively, dance-like rhythms, which convey a sense of joy and triumph. The recitative, "Ja, hätt es Gott nur zugegeben," is a spoken section that serves as a bridge between the arias and the closing chorale. The music is simple and understated, with a sense of quiet reflection. The closing chorale, "Ob bei uns ist der Sünden viel," is a hymn-like piece that features the full choir and orchestra. The music is characterized by its rich harmonies and soaring melodies, which convey a sense of gratitude and praise. Overall, Cantata No. 14 is a powerful and moving work that showcases Bach's mastery of choral and orchestral composition. Its themes of faith, protection, and deliverance continue to resonate with audiences today.

More....