Composer

:

Johann Adam Hiller

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Average_duration

:

5:57

"Alles Fleisch ist wie Gras" is a sacred cantata composed by Johann Adam Hiller. The piece was composed in 1768 and premiered in Leipzig on the 21st Sunday after Trinity in the same year. The cantata is divided into six movements and is based on the biblical text from the book of Isaiah, chapter 40, verse 6: "All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field." The first movement is an instrumental introduction, which sets the tone for the entire piece. It begins with a slow and somber melody played by the strings, which is then joined by the woodwinds and brass. The movement gradually builds in intensity, leading to the entrance of the choir. The second movement is a duet for soprano and alto, accompanied by a solo violin. The text speaks of the fleeting nature of human life and the need for repentance. The music is characterized by its gentle and flowing melody, which is reminiscent of a lullaby. The third movement is a chorus, which emphasizes the transience of human life. The music is marked by its powerful and dramatic choral writing, which is contrasted by moments of quiet reflection. The fourth movement is a recitative for bass, which speaks of the inevitability of death. The music is characterized by its declamatory style, with the bass singing in a speech-like manner. The fifth movement is a duet for tenor and bass, which speaks of the hope of eternal life. The music is characterized by its joyful and uplifting melody, which is accompanied by a lively orchestral accompaniment. The final movement is a chorus, which brings the cantata to a close. The text speaks of the promise of eternal life and the hope of salvation. The music is characterized by its triumphant and celebratory character, with the choir singing in a joyful and exultant manner. Overall, "Alles Fleisch ist wie Gras" is a powerful and moving work, which reflects on the transience of human life and the hope of eternal salvation. The music is characterized by its dramatic choral writing, expressive solo passages, and lively orchestral accompaniment.

More....