Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1735

Publication Date

:

1892

Average_duration

:

19:35

Movement_count

:

11

Movement ....

Johann Sebastian Bach's 'Jesu, meine Freude, BWV 227' is a sacred motet composed in Leipzig in 1723. It was premiered during Bach's tenure as the Thomaskantor at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. The motet is divided into eleven movements and is based on a hymn by Johann Franck. The first movement is a chorale setting of the hymn's first verse, with the choir singing in four parts. The second movement is a fugue, with the choir singing in six parts. The third movement is a chorale setting of the hymn's second verse, with the choir singing in four parts. The fourth movement is a fugue, with the choir singing in five parts. The fifth movement is a chorale setting of the hymn's third verse, with the choir singing in four parts. The sixth movement is a recitative, with the bass soloist singing the text "Trotz dem alten Drachen" (Despite the old dragon). The seventh movement is a chorale setting of the hymn's fourth verse, with the choir singing in four parts. The eighth movement is a fugue, with the choir singing in five parts. The ninth movement is a chorale setting of the hymn's fifth verse, with the choir singing in four parts. The tenth movement is a recitative, with the alto soloist singing the text "Gute Nacht, o Wesen" (Good night, existence). The eleventh and final movement is a chorale setting of the hymn's sixth verse, with the choir singing in four parts. The motet is characterized by its intricate counterpoint, with the various vocal parts weaving in and out of each other in a complex web of sound. The use of fugues and chorale settings gives the piece a sense of structure and unity, while the recitatives provide moments of contrast and reflection. Overall, 'Jesu, meine Freude, BWV 227' is a masterful example of Bach's sacred music, showcasing his skill as a composer and his deep faith as a Christian.

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