Dive into the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Johann Kuhnau's "Biblical Sonatas Nos. 1, 3 & 5," a captivating collection of choral works that bring biblical narratives to life. Released in 1962, this album showcases Kuhnau's mastery of programmatic music, where each sonata vividly depicts a specific biblical story through intricate compositions.
The album opens with "Biblical Sonata No. 1: The Fight Between David and Goliath," a thrilling eight-movement piece that narrates the iconic battle. From the boasting of Goliath to the triumphant celebration of the Israelites, Kuhnau's music paints a vivid picture of the dramatic events. Following this, "Biblical Sonata No. 3: Jacob's Wedding" offers a contrasting narrative, exploring themes of joy, love, and deception through seven movements that capture the essence of Jacob's complex journey.
The album concludes with "Biblical Sonata No. 5: Gideon, Saviour of Israel," a powerful seven-movement work that chronicles Gideon's doubts, fears, and ultimate victory. Each movement builds upon the last, culminating in a triumphant celebration of Gideon's remarkable triumph.
Performed by the renowned Colin Tilney, this mono version of the album is a testament to Kuhnau's enduring legacy as a composer. With a duration of just over 40 minutes, it offers a concise yet profound exploration of biblical themes through the lens of Baroque music. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of choral works or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and engaging listening experience.
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": I. The Boasting of GoliathJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": II. The Trembling of the Israelites on the Appearance of the Giant, and Their Prayer to GodJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": III. The Courage of David, His Wish to Humiliate the Arrogant and His Innocent Trust in God's AssistanceJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": IV. Fighting Words and Contest. Goliath is Hit by a Stone and FallsJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": V. Escape of the Philistines, Pursued by the Israelites Who Impale Them with Their SwordsJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": VI. The Israelites Celebrate Their VictoryJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": VII. Women's Concert in Honour of DavidJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 1 "The Fight Between David and Goliath": VIII. General Jubilation and People's Dances of JoyfulnessJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": I. Gideon's Doubt in the Victory God Has Promised HimJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": II. His Fear, Seeing an Army of Enemies Coming Upon HimJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": III. His Reviving Courage, Hearing the Narration of His Enemies' DreamJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": IV. Gideon Encourages His SoldiersJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": V. The Sounds of Trumpets, the Crash of Jugs and the Fighting ScreamsJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": VI. The Flight of the Enemies, Pursued by the IsraelitesJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 5 "Gideon, Saviour of Israel": VII. They Celebrate This Remarkable VictoryJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": I. The Joy of Laban's Family at the Arrival of JacobJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": II. Jacob's Servitude, Lightened by His Love for RachelJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": III. The Epithalamium Sung by Rachel's Young FriendsJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": IV. Wedding Celebrations and CongratulationsJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": V. Laban's TrickeryJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": VI. The Bridgeroom's Happiness. His Heart Predicts Him Misfortune, But He Forgets It as He Fells AsleepJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": VII. Jacob's Discontentment as He Finds Out Laban's ManipulationJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
Biblical Sonata No. 3 "Jacob's Wedding": VIII. Celebrations for Jacob's New WeddingJohann Kuhnau, Colin Tilney
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