Podcast About Bach, Episode 100 (Repeat).
In this episode, we’re following Johann Sebastian Bach to Leipzig, where, as cantor of the St Thomas School, he could finally devote himself to writing cantatas for the liturgical year.
It is generally assumed that Bach already had the concept for the St John Passion in mind when he was appointed in Leipzig. Through his cantatas, he was in a sense preparing the churchgoers for the intensity of his first Passion. Not long after taking up his post in Leipzig, he had completed the St John Passion and went on to perform it. For the congregation, the experience must have been like a bolt from the blue, while the council considered the work too long and therefore too expensive. Bach made a few changes here and there, but in fact wanted to leave again, as he felt that his work was not sufficiently appreciated.
Nevertheless, he remained in Leipzig and produced a large number of cantatas, ensuring that he always had enough music ready for every occasion. This gave him time to devote himself more fully to instrumental music, which he performed with the Collegium Musicum.
In addition to his position in Leipzig, he was also given the title of Kapellmeister at the court in Dresden—a title that would help protect him from his opponents on the city council.
Excerpts from:
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)
- Tune Bach & Co
From Sonata for Violin and Harpsichord No. 4 in C minor, BWV 1017: Siciliano (Largo)
Janine Jansen & Friends - St John Passion, BWV 245
Part 1: Herr, Unser Herrscher
Akademie für Alte Musik, conducted by René Jacobs - St Matthew Passion, BWV 244
- Chorus: “Wir setzen uns mit Tränen nieder”
J.S. Bach-Stiftung, conducted by Rudolf Lutz - St Matthew Passion, BWV 244
- Aria: “Aus Liebe will mein Heiland sterben” (soprano)
J.S. Bach-Stiftung, conducted by Rudolf Lutz - From Violin Concerto No. 2 in E major, BWV 1042: 1. Allegro
Isabelle Faust, violin; Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin - Lobe den Herren, BWV 137
Ludwig Güttler, trumpet; Friedrich Kircheis, organ, Dresden Frauenkirche - Mass in B minor, BWV 232
I. Kyrie: “Kyrie eleison” (chorus)
J.S. Bach-Stiftung, conducted by Rudolf Lutz - From Cantata BWV 198
Chorus: “Laß, Fürstin, Laß Noch Einen Strahl”
J.S. Bach-Stiftung, conducted by Rudolf Lutz - Christmas Oratorio
Part 4: “Flösst, mein Heiland, flösst dein Namen”
Rachel Harnisch, Anke Vondung, etc.; Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin and Bavarian Radio Chorus, conducted by Peter Dijkstra - From Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Aria
Pieter-Jan Belder, harpsichord
