Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Dec 27, 1724

Publication Date

:

1881

First Performance

:

Dec 27, 1724

Average_duration

:

19:47

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 133, Ich freue mich in dir, BWV 133, in 1724 during his first year as the Thomaskantor in Leipzig. The cantata was premiered on the third Sunday after Easter, also known as Jubilate Sunday, on April 22, 1724, at the St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig. The cantata consists of five movements, including an opening chorus, two recitatives, an aria, and a closing chorale. The text is based on a hymn by Johann Christoph Rube, which expresses joy and gratitude for the blessings of God. The opening chorus, "Ich freue mich in dir," is a joyful and celebratory piece that features a lively and energetic melody. The choir sings in four parts, accompanied by a full orchestra, including trumpets and timpani. The music is characterized by its rhythmic drive and lively counterpoint. The first recitative, "Ich danke dir und freue mich," is a solo piece for the tenor that expresses gratitude for God's blessings. The music is simple and understated, with the tenor accompanied by a continuo of cello and organ. The second recitative, "Ich bin ein Gast auf Erden," is a solo piece for the bass that reflects on the transience of life and the need to focus on eternal values. The music is somber and introspective, with the bass accompanied by a continuo of cello and organ. The aria, "Ich rede, wie ich denke," is a solo piece for the alto that expresses the joy of speaking freely and honestly. The music is characterized by its flowing melody and gentle accompaniment of strings and continuo. The closing chorale, "Ertöt uns durch dein Güte," is a simple and straightforward piece that expresses the desire to be purified and sanctified by God's grace. The music is characterized by its gentle harmonies and peaceful mood. Overall, Cantata No. 133, Ich freue mich in dir, BWV 133, is a joyful and celebratory work that reflects Bach's deep faith and musical genius. The music is characterized by its lively rhythms, intricate counterpoint, and expressive melodies, making it a beloved work in the Bach canon.

More....