Bach's Mass in B minor is a setting of the complete Roman Catholic Mass by a Lutheran Protestant, synthesizing Italian melodic invention, French rhythmic dance forms, and German contrapuntal mastery.
Recording & Production
This recording of Bach's Mass in B minor was made in November 2003 by Deutschlandfunk in the Sendesaal Köln.
Composition History
The Kyrie and Gloria of Bach's Mass in B minor were written in 1733 and dedicated to the new Elector of Saxony, Friedrich August II, as part of Bach's petition for a court title.
Interpretation
The Cologne Chamber Orchestra, under Helmut Müller-Brühl, plays according to the principles of historical performance practice on modern instruments.
Compositional Technique
Bach frequently incorporated music from his earlier works into the Mass in B minor, such as the Gratias agimus tibi from Cantata BWV 29 and the Crucifixus from Cantata BWV 171.
Composition History
The remaining movements of the Mass in B minor (Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei) were added in the last years of Bach's life, between 1747 and 1749, making considerable use of earlier works.
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