Bach: Cantata No. 173a “Durchlauchtster Leopold” / Masaaki Suzuki, Bach Collegium Japan

This secular cantata was written for the 28th birthday of Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Köthen. The script writer is unknown, but it is full of a flattering compliment toward Prince Leopold. The orchestra consists of a soprano, bass, two flaut traversos and bassoon, string ensemble, and basso continuo, with the unison of the two flutes and the first violin in particular creating a warm and beautiful tone. The soprano part was probably sung by Anna Magdalena Bach, who was working in the same office in Anhalt-Köthen at the time. #baroque #bach #cantata #片山俊幸