Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1736

Publication Date

:

1736

Average_duration

:

2:00

"Ich halte treulich still" is a sacred aria composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It is also known as "Ich will hier bei dir stehen" and is part of his St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244. The aria is sung by the alto soloist and is one of the most beautiful and poignant moments in the entire work. The St. Matthew Passion was composed in 1727 and premiered on Good Friday of that year at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, Germany. The work is divided into two parts, with the first part depicting the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the second part focusing on the crucifixion itself. "Ich halte treulich still" is part of the second part of the St. Matthew Passion and is the 39th movement of the work. The aria is set to a simple and elegant melody that is accompanied by a solo violin and continuo. The text of the aria is taken from the Gospel of Matthew and is a reflection on the death of Jesus Christ. The aria begins with the words "Ich will hier bei dir stehen" which translates to "I will stand here by you." The alto soloist then sings of her devotion to Jesus and her willingness to stand by him even in his darkest hour. The music is somber and reflective, with the solo violin adding a mournful and introspective quality to the piece. One of the most striking characteristics of "Ich halte treulich still" is its simplicity. Bach's use of a solo voice and a single instrument creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that is rare in his larger works. The aria is also notable for its emotional depth and the way it captures the profound sadness and grief of the crucifixion. Overall, "Ich halte treulich still" is a beautiful and moving aria that is a testament to Bach's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience in his music.

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