J. S. Bach: 300 Years
of Cantatas in Leipzig
by Mark Peters
When J. S. Bach began his position as music director for the town of Leipzig and cantor of the Thomaskirche in May 1723, he undertook a two-year task of intensive composition of church cantatas. The goal of this project is to offer readers and listeners reflections on the Gospel reading and poetry for the cantatas of Bach’s first two years in Leipzig. The posts follow the church year 300 years after Bach first presented these cantatas in 1723-1725.
Blog Posts (newest on top)
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Cantata 136, Erforsche mich, Gott, und erfahre mein Herz
Eighth Sunday after Trinity, July 18, 1723
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Cantata 186, Ärgre dich, o Seele, nicht
Seventh Sunday after Trinity, July 11, 1723
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Cantata 147, Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben
Feast of the Visitation of Mary, July 2, 1723
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Cantata 167, Ihr Menschen, rühmet Gottes Liebe
Feast of Saint John the Baptist, June 24, 1723
Mark Peters is professor of music and director of the Center for Teaching and the Good Life at Trinity Christian College, Palos Heights, Illinois. He regularly provides the cantata previews for Bach Cantata Vespers at Grace Lutheran Church, River Forest, Illinois.