Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

1736 - 1737

Publication Date

:

1864

Average_duration

:

28:14

Movement_count

:

10

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 197, Gott ist unsre Zuversicht, BWV 197, in 1728. The cantata was premiered on the 14th Sunday after Trinity, which fell on September 3, 1728, at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, Germany. The cantata consists of five movements, including an opening chorus, two arias, a recitative, and a closing chorale. The opening chorus, "Gott ist unsre Zuversicht," is a grand and majestic piece that features a full orchestra and choir. The music is characterized by its use of counterpoint and fugue, which are typical of Bach's style. The text of the chorus is based on Psalm 46, which speaks of God as a refuge and strength in times of trouble. The first aria, "Mein Gott, hier wird mein Herze sein," is a solo for alto accompanied by a solo violin. The music is characterized by its lyrical and expressive melody, which is reminiscent of an operatic aria. The text of the aria speaks of the believer's desire to be close to God and to find comfort in his presence. The second aria, "Gottes Wort, das trüget nicht," is a solo for bass accompanied by a solo oboe. The music is characterized by its lively and dance-like rhythm, which is typical of Bach's music. The text of the aria speaks of the reliability of God's word and the believer's trust in it. The recitative, "Er ist auf Erden kommen arm," is a solo for tenor accompanied by continuo. The music is characterized by its simplicity and directness, which is typical of Bach's recitatives. The text of the recitative speaks of the humility of Christ and his willingness to suffer for the sake of humanity. The closing chorale, "Gott Lob und Dank, der nicht zugab," is a four-part harmony for choir and orchestra. The music is characterized by its joyful and celebratory character, which is typical of Bach's chorales. The text of the chorale speaks of the believer's gratitude to God for his protection and guidance. Overall, Cantata No. 197, Gott ist unsre Zuversicht, BWV 197, is a masterful work that showcases Bach's skill as a composer. The music is characterized by its complexity, beauty, and emotional depth, which continue to captivate audiences to this day.

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