Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jan 7, 1725

Publication Date

:

1878

First Performance

:

Jan 7, 1725

Average_duration

:

13:10

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 124, Meinen Jesum lass ich nicht, BWV 124, in Leipzig in 1725. The cantata was premiered on February 23, 1725, the second Sunday before Lent. The work is divided into six movements and is scored for four vocal soloists, a four-part choir, and a Baroque orchestra consisting of two oboes, two violins, viola, and basso continuo. The first movement is a chorale fantasia based on the hymn "Meinen Jesum lass ich nicht" by Christian Keymann. The choir sings the chorale melody in long notes while the orchestra plays a complex and virtuosic accompaniment. The second movement is a recitative for bass soloist, who sings about the steadfastness of faith in Jesus. The third movement is an aria for soprano soloist, who sings about the comfort and protection that Jesus provides. The aria is accompanied by a solo violin, which plays a virtuosic and expressive obbligato. The fourth movement is a duet for alto and tenor soloists, who sing about the joy and peace that comes from trusting in Jesus. The duet is accompanied by a lively and dance-like instrumental ritornello. The fifth movement is a recitative for tenor soloist, who sings about the trials and tribulations of life and the comfort that Jesus provides. The final movement is a chorale setting of the hymn "Jesu, meine Freude" by Johann Franck. The choir sings the chorale melody in four-part harmony while the orchestra plays a simple and elegant accompaniment. The characteristics of Cantata No. 124, Meinen Jesum lass ich nicht, BWV 124, are typical of Bach's sacred cantatas. The work is deeply religious and expresses the Lutheran theology of salvation through faith in Jesus. The music is highly expressive and emotive, with complex and virtuosic instrumental writing and intricate vocal counterpoint. The use of chorale melodies and texts is a hallmark of Bach's cantatas, and the work demonstrates his mastery of this form. Overall, Cantata No. 124 is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Bach's genius as a composer of sacred music.

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