J.S. Bach context

Question 1

when was it composed

Answer 1

1700s

Question 2

what is a cantata

Answer 2

vocal composition with instrumental accompaniment, structured in multiple movements

Question 3

Oratorio

Answer 3

large-scale and sacred

Question 4

Aria

Answer 4

solo, often with instrumental accompaniment

Question 5

Chorale

Answer 5

a hymn of psalm sung to a traditional or composed melody in Church

Question 6

what is the cantus firmus

Answer 6

pre-existing melody of the Lutheran hymn

Question 7

how is the CF used in the first movement

Answer 7

a fugato based on each phrase, with ingenious details e.g. the first subject of the fugal exposition is based on first phrase, with a countersubject based on second phrase.
At the end of each section, the three oboes and organ/violone play a plain version of the CF in canon.

Question 8

how is the CF used in the second movement

Answer 8

Soprano sings a (slightly) decorated version of the CF
oboe performs a more elaborately decorated version at the same time creating a heterophonic texture. Bass performs free counterpoint.

Question 9

how is the CF used in the third movement

Answer 9

CF sung in unadorned (plain) form by soprano, with ATB harmony/homophony, with all the vocal parts doubled in the instrumental ensemble

Question 10

Introduction paragraph

Answer 10

-J.S. Bach born in 1685, was a renowned Baroque composer
-Celebrated for his prolific and influential work, particularly in sacred music
-many of his works was created for St. Thomas’ Church
-His cantata ‘Ein feste burg is unser Gott’ meaning a mighty fortress is our God was written for reformation day on the 31st of October
-where both the text and music are based on a Lutheran hymn
-A cantata is a vocal composition with instrumental accompaniment structured in multiple movements

Question 11

1st movement

Answer 11

-scored for a SATB choir and tutti orchestra
-vocal lines are closely doubled in the orchestra

Question 12

2nd movement

Answer 12

-Aria which is a solo often with instrumental accompaniment
-duet for soprano and bass with string accompaniment and solo oboe
-includes very elaborate accompaniment parts
-clear example of how Bach is a master of Baroque music

Question 13

8th movement

Answer 13

-4 part SATB chorale
-orchestral accompaniment that exactly doubles the vocal lines

Question 14

D major

Answer 14

The key of triumph
heaven-rejoicing choruses are set in this key.
(W.L. The trumpets shall sound - Handel)

Question 15

A major

Answer 15

Trust in God

Question 16

G major

Answer 16

Everything rustic, idyllic and lyrical, every calm and satisfied passion