Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
This chorale is part of Bach's cantata BWV 184 "Erwünschtes Freudenlicht", composed for Whit Tuesday. Typical of Bach's sacred works, it features intricate four-part harmony where the melody symbolizes communal faith. The chorale served as both a liturgical anchor and compositional framework, with Bach enriching simple hymn tunes through sophisticated counterpoint and expressive harmonies that conveyed theological meanings.
Composed for Whit Tuesday in 1724, BWV 184 "Erwünschtes Freudenlicht" showcases Bach's sacred craftsmanship. The tenor aria stands out as the only movement in a minor key (B minor), structured as a trio sonata for voice, violin, and continuo. The work features flutes mimicking "ethereal piping" in the opening recitative, a dance-like duet aria, and a gavotte-inspired closing chorus.