Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Motette (BWV 228): Fürchte dich nicht

Arranged by Ralph Sauer

2 alto (or tenor), 4 tenor, 2 bass trombones

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher:
Date of Publication: 2019
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

There are six motets attributed to J.S. Bach, although it is possible he wrote more. Scholarly material is inconclusive about the date and location that BWV 228 was written, but most agree he composed it in Weimar between 1723-1731. Like other motets, it was written for a specific occasion, most likely a funeral or remembrance service. The title translates to “Do Not Fear” in English, and the text is sourced from the Book of Isaiah, as well as from a chorale by the Lutheran theologian Paul Gerhardt (1607-1676).

The original motet is scored for double choir and basso continuo, although it is often performed with instruments colla parte. It is in the key of A major and has two main sections, marked by differing tempi. The first section is written in a contrapuntal style with several imitative sections. The two choirs engage in a call and response texture many times. The second section is fugal in nature, with material based upon Gerhardt’s chorale. There are occasional soloistic interjections throughout. The motet concludes with an extremely slow and short restatement of the opening material.

Mr. Cherry maintains most of the original material in his transcription, including detailed phrase markings and the double-choir scoring. The main difference is key; this transcription is in the key of C major. The antiphonal nature of Bach’s writing in this piece works well for a double trombone quartet.

The first part of each quartet can be played on alto or tenor trombone; parts in both alto and tenor clef are provided. These parts remain in the upper tessitura of c1 to c2 for much of the piece. Parts 2 and 3 are for tenor trombones, and part 4 is for bass trombone. The bass part extends down to C. This piece is suitable for an advanced level ensemble.