Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
"Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan" (What God does, that is well done) is a sacred cantata composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Here are some interesting facts about BWV 98:
Composition Date: Bach composed BWV 98 in 1726 during his time as the Thomaskantor in Leipzig.
Liturgical Context: The cantata was specifically written for the 15th Sunday after Trinity. In the Lutheran liturgical calendar, this falls roughly in the middle of the church year.
Cantata Structure: "Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan" is structured into nine movements, including choruses, arias, and recitatives. It follows the typical structure of Bach's sacred cantatas.
Libretto: The libretto for BWV 98 is based on the hymn of the same name written by Samuel Rodigast in 1674. The text reflects themes of trust and submission to God's will.
Instrumentation: Bach's orchestration for this cantata includes strings, oboes, trumpets, and continuo, creating a rich and expressive musical tapestry.
Chorale Usage: The opening and closing movements feature the choir singing the chorale tune associated with the hymn. Bach often incorporated chorales into his cantatas, providing a unifying and familiar element.
Theological Significance: The cantata's text reflects on the idea that everything God does is well done, emphasizing trust and acceptance of God's providence, even in the face of challenges.
Spiritual Reflection: As with many of Bach's sacred compositions, BWV 98 is not just a musical piece but also a spiritual meditation. The music and text work together to convey theological and emotional depth.
Legacy: Bach's cantatas, including "Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan," remain influential and are still performed and appreciated today for their artistic and spiritual qualities.
These facts provide a glimpse into the historical and musical context of Johann Sebastian Bach's cantata "Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, BWV 98."