Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
The cantatas of Johann Sebastian Bach are among the best known and most frequently performed musical works of the Baroque period. In an illuminating discussion of the musical, literary, aesthetic, and theological aspects of the composers early cantatas, leading Bach scholars place the works in their historical and biographical context. 85 photos.
Synopsis
Such questions concern the role of the cantatas in Bach's compositional development, musical models for the works, and performance practice during the composer's lifetime. In this book, Bach scholars place the works in their historical and biographical context, guiding the reader through their literary, musical, aesthetic and theological features. This volume--the first of three which complement a recording project by the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra and incorporating the complete Bach cantatas--covers the sacred cantatas he wrote during the first 28 years of his life, before his move to Leipzig in 1723.
Synopsis
The cantatas of J.S. Bach are among the best known and most frequently performed musical works of the baroque period. However, when they are played and heard today, questions arise that are difficult to answer because the works are being experienced outside their historical context.
About the Author
Christoph Wolff, a Pulitzer Prize finalist, is the Adams University Professor at Harvard University and one of the world's foremost experts on Bach and Mozart. He lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts.