Composer

:

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1781

Publication Date

:

1781

Average_duration

:

5:37

'Fürbitte des gekreuzigten Jesu für seine Feinde' is a sacred vocal work composed by Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach in 1784. The piece was premiered in Hamburg on Good Friday of the same year. It is a single-movement work that lasts approximately 15 minutes. The work is scored for four-part choir, soloists, and orchestra. The text is taken from the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus prays for his enemies while on the cross. The music is characterized by its expressive and dramatic nature, reflecting the intense emotions of the text. The piece begins with a somber and mournful introduction, setting the tone for the rest of the work. The choir enters with a prayerful and pleading melody, asking for forgiveness for those who have wronged them. The soloists then enter, each taking turns to sing a section of the text. Their voices are accompanied by the orchestra, which provides a rich and varied texture. The music builds in intensity as the soloists and choir sing together, creating a powerful and emotional climax. The piece ends with a quiet and reflective coda, as the choir sings a final prayer for forgiveness. Overall, 'Fürbitte des gekreuzigten Jesu für seine Feinde' is a moving and powerful work that showcases Bach's skill as a composer. Its expressive and dramatic nature makes it a fitting piece for Good Friday services and other solemn occasions.

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