Fürchte dich nicht, BWV 228; Komm, Jesu, komm, BWV 229; Ich lasse dich nicht, BWV 1164

While much of Bach’s music fell into obscurity after his death, his motets were the only works consistently performed before the “revival” of his music in the mid-19th century. In this session, we will explore three of these motets, all written for double choir: Fürchte dich nicht (BWV 228); Komm, Jesu, komm (BWV 229); and Ich lasse dich nicht (BWV 1164). These works are part of a long tradition of Evangelienmotetten (gospel motets), written for funerals and memorial services. Despite the severity of the circumstances, all three motets nonetheless provide comfort for the bereaved and hope for the afterlife. Each works comes for a different part of Bach’s life: Fürchte dich nicht was likely written in Weimar (1708–1717); Komm, Jesu, komm in Leipzig; and Ich lasse dich nicht was very likely not by Bach at all, but written by Johann Christoph, his father’s cousin.

We ask for a donation at each session of $20 per person to cover a stipend for the music director and other expenses. But any amount is welcome, and no one is turned away.

Learn more at https://berkeleybachcantata.org!