Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Nov 12, 1724

Publication Date

:

1881

First Performance

:

Nov 12, 1724

Average_duration

:

17:19

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 139, Wohl dem, der sich auf seinen Gott, BWV 139, in Leipzig in 1724. The cantata was premiered on October 29, 1724, as part of the liturgy for the 22nd Sunday after Trinity. The cantata consists of six movements, including an opening chorus, three arias, a recitative, and a closing chorale. The text is based on a hymn by Johann Georg Albinus, which emphasizes the theme of trust in God's protection and guidance. The opening chorus, "Wohl dem, der sich auf seinen Gott," is a joyful and celebratory piece, featuring a lively orchestral accompaniment and a complex choral fugue. The first aria, "Gott ist mein Freund," is a duet for soprano and alto, accompanied by a gentle and flowing melody on the oboe d'amore. The second aria, "Weil du mein Gott und Vater bist," is a solo for bass, accompanied by a virtuosic violin solo. The third aria, "Der Friede sei mit dir," is a duet for tenor and bass, accompanied by a gentle and peaceful melody on the flute. The recitative, "Und ob gleich alle Teufel," is a dramatic and intense piece, featuring a declamatory vocal line and a dissonant accompaniment. The closing chorale, "Drum so lasst uns immerdar," is a simple and straightforward piece, featuring a homophonic choral texture and a hymn-like melody. Overall, Cantata No. 139 is a masterful example of Bach's skill in combining complex musical structures with profound religious themes. The cantata's emphasis on trust in God's protection and guidance is a timeless message that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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