Advertisement
Johann Sebastian Bach's church cantatas are often considered the pinnacle of German sacred music, works whose theological depth and emotional resonance touch deep places in the human soul. This year, we follow Bach through the various stages of his career, from his earliest appointments in Arnstadt and Mühlhausen, to Weimar, and to the culmination of his work in Leipzig. Each place and each employment offered Bach different opportunities to focus his creative energies. The theme of this concert is "Leipzig III: Solo Cantatas" and it features two cantatas for solo bass, and a concerto for oboe, violin, and strings.Bach's Cantata 56, "Ich will den Kreuzstab gerne tragen," was composed for the Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity in 1726. Inspired by the Gospel story of a ship journeying through storms, it symbolizes the struggles of carrying the cross and navigating life's challenges on the path to heaven.
The solo bass cantata "Ich habe genu" (BWV82) was first performed in Leipzig in 1727 for the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Candlemas), one of five cantatas written for this feast. Unusually, the anonymous libretto does not draw from Scripture, though the first movement echoes Simeon's words in Luke 2 after holding the infant Jesus.
The "Concerto in C minor for Oboe, Violin, and Strings" (BWV 1090R) is a reconstructed work by Bach, originally written for two harpsichords and string orchestra. The piece showcases a dynamic dialogue between the soloists and the strings, highlighting Bach's skill in blending instrumental voices.
There is no charge for admission. Paid parking is available on a first-come-first-served basis in the Bryan Center Garage at 125 Science Drive. ADA parking is available in the surface lot at the same address.
Learn more about the music in this concert by attending a pre-concert talk by Chapel Organist Chad Fothergill at 4:00 p.m. in Goodson Chapel in the Divinity School's Westbrook Building.
Families with young children and those not able to attend on Sunday are very welcome to sit in on the rehearsal on Saturday, February 1, between 1:30 and 4:00 p.m.
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
401 Chapel Dr, Durham, NC, United States, North Carolina 27708
