Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jul 29, 1725

Publication Date

:

1887

First Performance

:

Jul 29, 1725

Average_duration

:

12:56

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 168, Tue Rechnung! Donnerwort, BWV 168, in 1725 for the 11th Sunday after Trinity. The cantata premiered on August 20, 1725, at the St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig, Germany. The cantata consists of six movements, including an opening chorus, two recitatives, two arias, and a closing chorale. The text is based on the Gospel reading for the day, which focuses on the parable of the unjust steward. The cantata's title translates to "Settle your account! Thunderous word." The opening chorus, "Tue Rechnung! Donnerwort," is a powerful and dramatic piece that features a full orchestra and choir. The music is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which creates a sense of tension and urgency. The first recitative, "O unerhörtes Gotteswort," is sung by the tenor soloist and features a dialogue between the steward and his lord. The music is somber and reflective, with the soloist accompanied by a simple continuo. The first aria, "Wie will ich mich freuen, wie will ich mich laben," is sung by the alto soloist and features a joyful and lively melody. The music is characterized by its use of dance rhythms and virtuosic vocal lines. The second recitative, "So recht, ihr Engel, jauchzt und singet," is sung by the bass soloist and features a dialogue between the angels and the steward. The music is celebratory and uplifting, with the soloist accompanied by a full orchestra. The second aria, "Christi Glieder, ach bedenket," is sung by the soprano soloist and features a gentle and contemplative melody. The music is characterized by its use of flowing melodic lines and delicate orchestration. The closing chorale, "Ertöt uns durch deine Güte," is a simple and beautiful piece that features the full choir and orchestra. The music is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and lush orchestration. Overall, Cantata No. 168, Tue Rechnung! Donnerwort, BWV 168, is a powerful and dramatic work that showcases Bach's mastery of both vocal and instrumental music. The cantata's use of dissonance, chromaticism, and dance rhythms creates a sense of urgency and excitement, while its contemplative moments provide a sense of reflection and introspection.

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