In BWV 62, Bach weaves Martin Luther’s 1524 hymn melody throughout both the instrumental and vocal textures with characteristic invention and brilliance. BWV 36 also celebrates this hymn, but with a fresh approach, reworking material from Bach’s secular cantatas and introducing an innovative structure where chorale verses replace traditional recitatives, creating an extended, two-part work.

The concert opens with choruses filled with tremendous energy and joyful anticipation, heralding the coming of the Saviour. Through expressive arias and chorales, the music reflects on divine wonders, the majesty of God, and the blessings promised to the faithful as we prepare for the birth of Christ. As the hymn urges, “Laßt die süße Musica ganz freudenreich erschallen” – “Let the sweet music ring out full of joy.”

Join us on Sunday, 1st December at 2:30 pm at St John the Evangelist Church, Oxford, and experience the beauty of Bach’s Advent music.