Cantata Series #1

Description

Bach Cantata Concert: A Celebration of the New Year & Epiphany

The Bach Cantata Concert presents two of Johann Sebastian Bach’s cantatas for the New Year and Epiphany, bringing to life works composed for these specific occasions. This program highlights Bach’s ability to blend deep reflection with musical brilliance, creating a concert that is both expressive and historically significant.

Bach’s Cantatas in Their Intended Season

The Bach Cantata Concert opens with Bach’s chorale prelude for organ, “Wir Christenleut” (“We Christian people now have Joy”), BWV 612. This lively piece sets the tone for the evening’s two featured cantatas:

• “Ach Gott, wie manches Herzeleid” (“Ah God, how much heartbreak”), BWV 58 – Written for the first Sunday after New Year’s Day, this cantata presents a dialogue between soprano and bass soloists. It explores themes of struggle and hope, weaving intricate musical lines that highlight deep emotional contrasts.
• “Liebster Immanuel, Herzog der Frommen” (“Dearest Emmanuel, leader of the righteous”), BWV 123 – First performed on January 6, 1725, for the Feast of Epiphany, this work is built around a chorale melody. Throughout the cantata, Bach’s setting transforms the text’s vivid imagery into striking musical gestures.

Honoring 300 Years of Bach’s Leipzig Cantatas

David Long reflects on the significance of this program:

“In 2025, the Bach Choir marks the 300th anniversary of Bach’s second year as Thomaskantor in Leipzig. During this period, he composed a remarkable series of sacred works, including the two cantatas on this program. Ach Gott, wie manches Herzeleid offers an intimate conversation between the soul and the Savior. In contrast, Liebster Immanuel, Herzog der Frommen carries the grandeur of Epiphany, bringing the season’s themes to life through music.”

Featured Soloists and Instrumentalists

This performance features a distinguished lineup of vocalists and musicians:

• Janelle Wagoner, soprano
• Doug Dodson, countertenor
• Erik Gustafson, tenor
• Matthew Hoch, bass
• Karla Fowkes, organ
• Sheri Peck, violin and concertmaster

Each soloist will navigate Bach’s intricate vocal lines, blending technical mastery with expressive detail. Meanwhile, the instrumentalists will provide the essential foundation, bringing clarity to the complex textures.

Why This Concert Matters

Bach wrote these cantatas for specific Sundays and feast days, crafting them with purpose and precision. Today, they offer a chance to experience music in the context for which it was created.

For Chattanooga audiences, this concert is a rare opportunity. Not only does it invite listeners into Bach’s world, but it also offers a moment to reflect on the beauty of his music. On a quiet Sunday afternoon, these works provide an hour of inspiration, contemplation, and renewal.