 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
J.S. Bach and his motets Most people speak of Bach's six motets, but there may be as many as eight surviving examples by Bach. Given the paucity of their appearance among his complete surviving works, most scholars agree that the motets were most likely written for special occasions, very likely funerals. Another clue to the idea that these were "occasional pieces" is their scoring for 5-8 voices -- far more than Bach had at his disposal at the school or for a "normal" church service. Only one motet, "Lobet den Herrn alle Heiden" specifies a continuo part, though it was the normal in Bach's time in Leipzig for the continuo to play during motets; often, the continuo part was doubled multiply, including organ and harpsichord and lute, perhaps even with violone, cello, and bassoon as well. Each work, save for one, takes its text from the Bible and/or Lutheran chorale texts. There is very little one can say as a trait that will apply to all of Bach's motets; each is so different from the others in many ways. All are clearly religious works written in German, intended for multiple voice parts, but beyond that, there is little one can say. Fortunately, it is their differences, not their commonalities, which make them so interesting. Learn more about these motets the Bach Choir has performed: "Lobet den Herrn, alle Heiden" © 2003 Carol Traupman-Carr |