专辑简介

2 live recordings Performed on period instruments by the Choir & Orchestra of the J.S. Bach Foundation under the direction of Rudolf Lutz. Comprehensive booklet with German cantata texts, introductions to each cantata (in English and German) and scholarly contributions by Dr Anselm Hartinger and Rudolf Lutz. Ulrike Hofbauer (soprano), Margot Oitzinger (alto), Raphael Hohn (tenor) and Matthias Helm (bass) as soloists (BWV 102). Mirjam Berli (soprano) Alex Potter (countertenor), Raphael Hohn (tenor) and Dominik Worner (bass) as soloists (BWV 69a). Cantata BWV 102 “Herr, deine Augen sehen nach dem Glauben” (Lord, thine eyes look after true believing), is a resounding call for repentance and recommitment to God. Today’s ambivalence in matters of faith, however, leaves many bemused by such appeals for a life of more earnest reflection. Nonetheless, even those with strong reservations will not be able to fully withstand the cantata’s appeal for repentance: what if the librettist happened to be right?! That is the power of Bach’s music. The motet BWV 228 by J. S. Bach, with its reassuring cry of “Furchte dich nicht” (Fear have thou not), is our response to the current, sombre state of the world. Also featured on this CD is another setting of “Furchte dich nicht”, a five-voice motet by Bach’s uncle from Eisenach, Johann Christoph Bach, which stems from Bach’s collation of works by his forefathers. A further bonus track is the Lamento by Viennese violinist and Vizekapellmeister Johann Heinrich Schmelzer. Set in the poignant key of B minor, the work is replete with heart-rending intervals and the tone of desolate funeral bells. Finally! That’s what the choir connoisseurs among our cantata CD collectors will exclaim when they finally hold in their hands our live recording of BWV 69a “Lobe den Herrn, meine Seele” (Praise thou the Lord, O my spirit).