Special Music Sunday on March 14 at 10AM Service

Cantata BWV 106 – Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit (God’s Own Time is the Best of All) by J. S. Bach (1685-1750)

In celebration of the 325th anniversary of Bach’s birth, the St. Mary’s Adult Choir, soloists and guest instrumentalists will perform Cantata BWV 106 during the 10 a.m. service on Sunday, March 14.

This cantata, known as Actus tragicus, is an early composition, probably written by Bach in 1707 for his uncle’s funeral. It is scored for two recorders, two violas da gamba and continuo. The text consists of Biblical passages and verses from existing hymns, addressing the theme of human mortality and, at the same time, reminding us of God’s continuing presence with us.

During the first half of the 18th century, the most important form of Protestant church music was the cantata. Bach wrote cantatas for every Sunday of the Church Year, as well as for special services. The cantata was performed following the Gospel reading, either before or after the Sermon, as a sung proclamation of the Word of God. Cantata 106 will be performed as the musical centerpiece of our service on March 14. Please join us next Sunday for this special Lenten meditation in song.

–Kirsten Johnson