Customer Reviews

Bach: Cantatas, BWV 19, 20

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I believe that Bach's complete cantatas beyond just the most famous ones belong in the collections of anyone who loves classical music. I have found that they are consentrated masterpieces. And each one is completely different. I am enamored of Rilling's cycle because of the complete dedication he and his performers give to each work the perform. The only people who will not like Rilling are those who insist on period intruments. I love the booklets that explan each canata and what to look for in them in order to best appreciate Bach's mastery of finding the best way to express the words.

Since the BWV numbers are not sequential this disc contains works from different parts of Bach's life.

BWV 19 There arose a great strife is for the Michaelmass celebration which celebrates a supposed appearance of the Archangel in Italy. The words of the cantata describle Michael slaying a dragon. The six minute tenor aria for trumpet(representing angels) and strings is one of the most beautiful pieces of music I have ever heard.

BWV 20 Eternity THou THundrous word also employs a trumpet this time in the bass aria Wach auf as a symbol of the end of mankind. This long cantata in two parts begins with an overture and a chorus which conjures up frightfully the fear of hell but ends with the reminder of the possiilty of salvation in the beutiful duet oh child of man.

Please buy as many Rilling cantatas as you can afford.

Please excuse typos i have a neuroloic disease.