Himmelskönig, sei willkommen, BWV 182

Schlosskirche Weimar 1660

Himmelskönig, sei willkommen, BWV 182

Himmelskönig, sei willkommen (King of Heaven, be welcome), BWV 182, is a church cantata by Johann Sebastian Bach. It was composed in Weimar for Palm Sunday and was first performed on 25 March 1714. The cantata is one of the earliest works Bach composed for the Duke of Weimar, Wilhelm Ernst.

History and Context

Bach was appointed as Konzertmeister in Weimar in 1714, a position that required him to compose a new cantata every month. Himmelskönig, sei willkommen was composed for Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week in the liturgical calendar. The text of the cantata is based on a combination of biblical passages and hymns, reflecting the themes of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.

Structure and Scoring

The cantata is scored for soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), a four-part choir, and an instrumental ensemble consisting of recorders, violins, viola, and basso continuo. The work is structured in eight movements:

1. Sonata (Instrumental)
2. Chorus: Himmelskönig, sei willkommen
3. Recitative (tenor): Siehe, ich komme
4. Aria (tenor): Starkes Lieben
5. Chorale: Jesu, deine Passion
6. Recitative (bass): So lasset uns gehen in Salem der Freuden
7. Aria (soprano): Leget euch dem Heiland unter
8. Chorale: Jesu, deine Passion

Musical Analysis

The opening Sonata is an instrumental movement that sets a festive tone for the cantata. The following chorus, Himmelskönig, sei willkommen, features a lively and joyful melody, welcoming Jesus as the King of Heaven. The tenor recitative and aria that follow reflect on the strength of Jesus' love and his willingness to suffer for humanity.

The central chorale, Jesu, deine Passion, is a reflective hymn that contrasts with the more elaborate arias and recitatives. The bass recitative and soprano aria that follow continue the theme of devotion and submission to Jesus. The cantata concludes with a repeat of the chorale, providing a sense of closure and reflection.

Performance History

Himmelskönig, sei willkommen was first performed in the Schlosskirche (Court Chapel) in Weimar on Palm Sunday, 25 March 1714. The cantata has since become a staple of the Baroque music repertoire and is frequently performed and recorded by choirs and orchestras around the world.

Legacy

As one of Bach's early cantatas, Himmelskönig, sei willkommen showcases his developing style and mastery of the cantata form. The work is notable for its expressive melodies, intricate counterpoint, and rich harmonic language. It remains an important example of Bach's sacred music and his contributions to the Lutheran liturgical tradition.

See Also

• List of Bach cantatas
• Johann Sebastian Bach
• Church cantata
• Baroque music
• Palm Sunday