Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Chorale Prelude

Compose Date

:

before 1766

Publication Date

:

1979

Average_duration

:

5:28

'Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein, BWV Anh. 78' is a sacred cantata composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written during his time in Weimar, between 1708 and 1717. The cantata was likely composed for a funeral or memorial service. The cantata consists of three movements. The first movement is a chorale, "Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein" (When we are in the greatest distress), which sets the text of the hymn by Johann Rosenmüller. The second movement is a recitative for bass, "Ach, dass ein Christ so sehr vergehen" (Ah, that a Christian should so utterly perish), which reflects on the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The final movement is a chorale, "Gott, der du bist der rechte Gott" (God, you are the true God), which offers comfort and hope in the face of death. The cantata is characterized by its simplicity and directness. The chorale melodies are straightforward and easy to sing, and the harmonies are relatively simple. The recitative is declamatory in style, with the bass soloist delivering the text in a speech-like manner. The final chorale is a simple four-part setting of the hymn tune, with the voices singing in unison for much of the piece. Overall, 'Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein, BWV Anh. 78' is a poignant and moving work that reflects on the fragility of life and the hope of eternal life. Its simplicity and directness make it accessible to a wide range of listeners, and its message of comfort and hope continues to resonate with audiences today.

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