Why did Bach use recorders and horns to transform a hunting cantata into one of his most pastoral melodies? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
"Was mir behagt, ist nur die muntre Jagd," BWV 208, commonly known as the "Hunting Cantata," is a secular cantata composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:
Commissioned Work: The Hunting Cantata was composed by Bach in 1713 for the 31st birthday of Duke Christian of Saxe-Weissenfels. It was commissioned as a tribute to the duke's passion for hunting.
Libretto by Salomon Franck: The text for the cantata was written by Salomon Franck, a German poet and lawyer. The libretto reflects the joy and excitement associated with hunting, with allegorical references to the duke and the pleasure of the chase.
Bach's Secular Compositions: While Bach is widely known for his religious compositions, such as his numerous cantatas and the Mass in B Minor, he also wrote several secular works. The Hunting Cantata is one of these secular compositions.
Multi-Movement Structure: The cantata consists of a series of recitatives, arias, and choruses, typical of Bach's cantata structure. Each movement captures different aspects of the hunting theme, from the thrill of the chase to the celebration of the duke's love for hunting.
Instrumentation: The Hunting Cantata features a chamber ensemble with instruments such as strings, oboes, and horns. The use of horns is particularly fitting for a hunting-themed composition, adding a festive and majestic quality to the music.
Agricultural References: In addition to the hunting theme, the cantata also includes references to agriculture and the bounty of the land. This is seen in movements where the characters praise the duke's role in ensuring a prosperous harvest.
Popular Arias: Some of the arias from the Hunting Cantata, such as "Sheep may safely graze" (Schafe können sicher weiden), have become famous in their own right and are often performed separately from the complete cantata.
The "Hunting Cantata" stands out as a delightful example of Bach's ability to compose music for various occasions, showcasing his versatility as a composer beyond his sacred works.