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"Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland" (Now come, Savior of the Gentiles), BWV 62, is a notable cantata composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:

1. Liturgical Context: BWV 62 is a chorale cantata composed for the first Sunday in Advent. It was first performed in Leipzig on December 3, 1724. The text is based on Martin Luther's hymn of the same name.

2. Chorale Structure: The cantata follows a structure common to Bach's chorale cantatas. It consists of an opening chorus, alternating recitatives and arias, and a closing chorale. The text of the hymn is interspersed throughout the movements.

3. Chorale Melody: The hymn "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland" is attributed to Luther, and its melody dates back to the 14th century. Bach often used chorale melodies in his cantatas, grounding his compositions in the congregational singing tradition.

4. Symbolism in the Text: The text of the cantata reflects the anticipation and preparation for the arrival of Jesus Christ. The first movement sets the tone with a majestic choral setting of the hymn's first verse, emphasizing the sense of expectation.

5. Instrumentation: Like many of Bach's cantatas, BWV 62 features a rich orchestration. The scoring typically includes strings, oboes, and other instruments, creating a vibrant and expressive musical setting for the text.

6. Theological Depth: Bach's cantatas often explore deep theological themes, and BWV 62 is no exception. The text delves into the concepts of redemption and salvation, fitting for the Advent season, which marks the beginning of the liturgical year in many Christian traditions.

7. Enduring Legacy: "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland" is just one of Bach's more than 200 extant cantatas. Bach's contributions to sacred music, particularly in the form of his cantatas, have had a lasting impact on the history of Western classical music.

These facts highlight the musical and theological richness of Johann Sebastian Bach's cantata "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland."