The date of composition of this chorale prelude is hard to pin down: it was almost certainly written before 1708 and probably dates to the earlier part of Bachs Arnstadt years (1703 - 1707). Whatever the case, Christ lag in Todes Banden (Christ lay in the bonds of death) is a compelling work, generally thought to be superior to the later chorale fantasia of the same title (BWV 695), which is more subdued in character and smaller in scope. This earlier version quietly begins, the music slowly building from mysterious single notes in the lower register. Muted tones from the upper range stating the chorale theme appear overtop of them and the music gradually accrues a sense of tension and expectation. The tempo becomes more animated about midway through and the dark mood begins lifting. In the latter third or so of the piece, the music takes on an ecstatic manner, the tempo now quite rapid and the mood ecstatic in its triumph and glory. As usual, Bachs contrapuntal skills are in evidence throughout the work, but most noticeably in the brilliant and colorful final pages. This masterful chorale prelude has a duration of about five minutes. youtube/watch?v=zKQvnMdlZig
Posted on: Sat, 13 Sep 2014 09:59:21 +0000