Bach Cantata Meine Seel erhebt den Herren BWV 10 Creed, Netherlands Bach Society
The cantata Meine Seel erhebt den Herren, performed here by the Netherlands Bach Society for All of Bach, was written by Bach for the Feast of the Annunciation on 2 July 1724 in Leipzig. The church reading for that day was the passage from the Gospel of Luke that describes the expectant Marys visit to her cousin Elizabeth, who is also expecting. When the two women greet one another, Elizabeths baby (who grew up to be John the Baptist) jumps for joy in her belly, as he recognises Jesus in Marys belly. Then Mary bursts into what is known as Marys hymn of praise, or the Magnificat. Following a short instrumental introduction, the chorus enters in a joyful chorale. The long lines in the orchestra contrast with the quick, lively parts for the choir, creating an effect of exuberant cheerfulness and energy also later on, when the roles are reversed. The joyful mood continues in the jumpy, dancy soprano aria. The many leaps automatically suggest the babys jumps for joy in Elizabeths belly. Th
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