J.S. Bach: The Church Cantatas, Vol. 45: Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan, BWV 100

BWV100, the third cantata on the hymn `Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan’, quotes the complete hymn literally. The opening chorus is based on that of BWV99, with horns and timpani added. A brilliant opening theme is followed by lovely passages for the oboes. When the choir enters both themes return. The sopranos sing the chorale melody, the other voices following on. The other verses are all arias, and the chorale melody is never completely absent. In the alto/tenor duet the rising fourth with which the chorale begins is heard, while at `Es steht in seinen Händen’ line 5 of the chorale is referred to. The number is a beautiful illustration of the concept of `Geduld’. In the soprano aria the flute has a splendid part, again starting off with the rising fourth of the chorale. The bass line is, as always, worth paying special attention to here. The bass aria with its splendid spacious melody, ending with a delightful little descending motif, contrasts joy and sorrow. There are long runs on `Leben’ and a long