Nun komm, der heiden heiland

Definition

Nun komm, der heiden heiland is a Lutheran chorale that translates to 'Now come, Savior of the heathens' and is based on a 15th-century hymn by Martin Luther. This hymn is significant in the context of Bach's compositions as it embodies the themes of redemption and salvation, central to Lutheran worship. Bach frequently incorporated this chorale into his works to connect his music with the spiritual and liturgical practices of the Lutheran Church, making his compositions not just artistic expressions but also religious statements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hymn Nun komm, der heiden heiland was written by Martin Luther in 1524 and is based on the Latin hymn 'Veni Redemptor Gentium.'
2. Bach used this chorale in several of his works, including in the opening chorus of his cantata BWV 61, emphasizing its importance in his musical narrative.
3. The text of the chorale reflects the Advent season, focusing on themes of hope and anticipation for Christ's coming.
4. Bach’s arrangement of this chorale often includes elaborate counterpoint and harmonization, showcasing his mastery of choral writing.
5. The incorporation of Nun komm, der heiden heiland in Bach's music illustrates how chorales served as thematic anchors within larger musical structures.

Review Questions

• How does Bach’s use of Nun komm, der heiden heiland reflect the theological ideas central to Lutheran worship?
  • Bach’s use of Nun komm, der heiden heiland reflects Lutheran theology by emphasizing themes of salvation and redemption that are foundational to the faith. By integrating this chorale into his compositions, Bach connects the musical experience directly with the liturgical calendar and the congregation's spiritual journey. The hymn's focus on Christ as the Savior aligns with Lutheran beliefs about grace and faith, making it a powerful statement within the context of worship.
• In what ways did Bach innovate upon traditional forms through his adaptation of Lutheran chorales like Nun komm, der heiden heiland?
  • Bach innovated traditional forms by creatively weaving chorales like Nun komm, der heiden heiland into complex musical structures such as cantatas and oratorios. He would often take a simple hymn tune and expand upon it with intricate counterpoint and varied instrumentation. This approach not only elevated the chorale musically but also deepened its emotional impact during worship, allowing congregants to experience a richer connection to their faith through music.
• Evaluate the impact of Lutheran chorales on the evolution of Baroque sacred music, using Nun komm, der heiden heiland as a case study.
  • Lutheran chorales significantly influenced the evolution of Baroque sacred music by providing composers like Bach with accessible melodic material that resonated with congregations. Using Nun komm, der heiden heiland as a case study highlights how these hymns served as both thematic content and structural frameworks within larger compositions. As Bach adapted this chorale into elaborate musical settings, he demonstrated how traditional hymns could evolve into sophisticated art forms while maintaining their core spiritual messages. This blend of simplicity and complexity in sacred music helped define the Baroque style and set the stage for future developments in choral and liturgical music.

Related terms

Lutheran Chorales: Hymns used in Lutheran worship, often based on Biblical texts, that were integral to congregational singing and the Protestant Reformation.

Bach's Cantatas: A form of musical composition that includes vocal and instrumental pieces, often incorporating chorales and biblical texts, frequently composed by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Baroque Sacred Music: Music from the Baroque period (approximately 1600-1750) that focuses on religious themes, often characterized by intricate polyphony and emotional expression.