Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

Jan 5, 1727

Publication Date

:

1863

First Performance

:

Jan 5, 1727

Average_duration

:

13:38

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach composed Cantata No. 58, Ach Gott, wie manches Herzeleid, BWV 58, in 1727. The cantata was premiered on the 23rd Sunday after Trinity, which fell on November 11th of that year. The piece is divided into six movements, with a total runtime of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement is an aria for tenor, accompanied by a solo violin and continuo. The music is mournful and introspective, with the tenor lamenting the sorrows of the human heart. The second movement is a recitative for bass, which serves as a bridge between the first and third movements. The bass reflects on the tenor's words and offers a prayer for comfort and strength. The third movement is a duet for soprano and alto, accompanied by a solo oboe and continuo. The music is more hopeful and uplifting than the previous movements, with the two voices intertwining in a beautiful melody. The fourth movement is a recitative for tenor, which reflects on the theme of the previous duet and offers a prayer for God's mercy. The fifth movement is a chorale, with the choir singing a hymn based on the text of Psalm 94. The music is majestic and powerful, with the choir proclaiming the greatness of God and his ability to comfort those who are suffering. The final movement is a chorale for four voices, with the choir singing a hymn based on the text of Psalm 73. The music is peaceful and serene, with the choir expressing their trust in God and their hope for a better future. Overall, Cantata No. 58 is a deeply emotional and introspective work, reflecting on the sorrows and struggles of the human heart. The music is both mournful and hopeful, with Bach's masterful use of harmony and counterpoint creating a sense of both despair and comfort. The piece is a testament to Bach's skill as a composer and his ability to express complex emotions through music.

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