The text is compiled mainly from biblical sources, three different sections from Psalm 74 and several other verses. In addition, one stanza from Johann Heermann's hymn "O Gott, du frommer Gott" is sung simultaneously with corresponding biblical text, and free poetry by an unknown poet of Bach's time which relates to the political occasion. The cantata in seven movements is scored festively with a Baroque instrumental ensemble including trumpets and timpani, "four separate instrumental 'choirs', set against a vocal consort of four singers, an optional Capelle of ripienists and an organ". Stylistically it shares features with Bach's other early cantatas.
Original Name | Gott ist mein König |
Librettist | Psalm LXXIV: 12, 16-17, 19 (Nos.1, 4, 6) 2 Samuel 19: 35, 37 (No.2) Johann Heermann (1585-1647) (No.2) Deuteronomy 33: 25 (No.3) Genesis 21: 22 (No.3) Anonymous (Nos.5, 7) |
Date of composition | 1708 in Mühlhausen, Germany |
Premiered | 1708, February 4th in Mühlhausen, Germany |
First published | 1708 (parts) ; 1870 (BGA) (score) |
Dedicated to | For the 1708 Council Election at Mühlhausen |
Type | Secular Cantata |
Tonality | C Major |
Catalogue | BWV 71 |
Spoken language | German |
Instruments |
3x
Voice
Chorus/Choir Orchestra |
Links | |
Autotranslations beta |
Jean-Sébastien Bach: God is my King en do majeur, BWV 71 Johann Sebastian Bach: God is my King in do maggiore, BWV 71 Johann Sebastian Bach: God is my King C-dur, BWV 71 |