Bach and Kuhnau: Music of hope in the mourning month of November

Bach and Kuhnau: Music of hope in the mourning month of November

On November 9, 2025, November will not only be marked by sadness, but also a month full of hope. These ideas are at the forefront when we consider Johann Sebastian Bach's motet, which draws from the 41st and 43rd chapters of the book of Isaiah. In this double-choir motet, a choir calls out to each other: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine." This central message offers believers comfort and strength, especially in the dark time of the mourning month of November, as DOMRADIO.DE emphasizes.

The structure of the motet creates an impressive arc by musically revisiting the word “Don’t be afraid” at the end of the work. Although the exact time of its creation is unclear, it is believed that the work was composed either early in Bach's creative period in Weimar or later in Leipzig. It is also considered a recurring element at funerals, highlighting its importance during the month of mourning. Johann Kuhnau, Bach's predecessor as St. Thomas cantor in Leipzig, had already written similar works for memorial services, including the motet “The Just One Comes Around,” the text of which also comes from the book of Isaiah.

Johann Sebastian Bach: A Master of Baroque Music

Johann Sebastian Bach was born on March 31, 1685 in Eisenach and is considered one of the greatest composers in Western music history. His extensive creative period spanned 65 years until his death on July 28, 1750 in Leipzig. Bach is known for his diverse works, which include orchestral compositions such as the Brandenburg Concertos, major piano works such as the Goldberg Variations, and choral music such as the St. Matthew Passion. According to Wikipedia, he was a master in mastering counterpoint and harmonic structure, which helped him enrich German musical styles.

His early life was dominated by music; Even as an orphan, he was introduced to the art of making music by his eldest brother, Johann Christoph. During his career, Bach worked in various cities, including Weimar, Köthen and finally Leipzig, where he became St. Thomas cantor in 1723 and composed for the Lutheran churches and the student ensemble of the University of Leipzig.

Bach's legacy and relevance today

Bach's music has endured through the centuries and remains a beloved subject in concert halls and music studies. He left behind 20 children, four of whom also became composers. Despite initial difficulties in the recognition of his works, he became increasingly influential and important, especially in the 19th century, as Britannica highlights.

As part of the month of mourning November, the expansion of Bach and Kuhnau's music will be honored in a special radio program that will be broadcast on Sunday evening at 8 p.m. These programs not only provide an opportunity to experience the timeless beauty of Bach's music, but also to reflect on the themes of grief and hope woven throughout his works.