Bach: Background Info

Question 1

what classical period was Bach?

Answer 1

Baroque

Question 2

what are the dates of the Baroque period?

Answer 2

1600-1750

Question 3

what are the dates of Bach?

Answer 3

1685-1750

Question 4

what nationality was Bach?

Answer 4

german

Question 5

what is a cantata?

Answer 5

a vocal composition with instrumental accompaniment consisting of many movements

Question 6

what were cantatas required for?

Answer 6

sunday sevices and holy days after the reading of the Gospel

Question 7

what as Bach appointed as in 1723?

Answer 7

cantor of Thomas Kirche in Leipzig

Question 8

who was the founder of the Protestant church in germany and what effect did he make which contributes to cantatas?

Answer 8

Martin Luther

• wanted to involve ordinary worhsippers in Church
• new tradition of singing in German as opposed to Latin

Question 9

how many cantatas did Bach write?

Answer 9

approx 200

Question 10

which number cantata is this and what does it translate to?

Answer 10

cantata 80

ein feste burg ist unser Gott - a mighty god is our fortress

Question 11

how many movements are there?

Answer 11

eight movements

Question 12

what was cantata 80 written for and when was it completed?

Answer 12

reformation day on 31st October

- completed in 1730

Question 13

name 10 typical features of the Baroque style

Answer 13

• use of continuo
• use of sackbut
• use of functional and diatonic harmony
• frequent cadences
• frequent modulations
• use of suspensions
• use of long pedal notes
• highly contrapuntal textures
• ornamentation (reflects art)