Gloria in G Major by Johann Christian Bach

This week on Going Beyond Words, Host Stan Schmidt brings to ACDA Radio and ChoralNet, an invitation to enjoy music by Jean Mouton, Giuseppe Verdi and one of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Children, known as the “London Bach” Johann Christian Bach.

First is a Classic Christmas (Virgin Mary) composition, the famous Nesciens mater offered by Cappella Pratensis which is taken from a CD that contains Antony Pitts Missa Unitatis.  The second selection, from the same disc, is also a salute to the Virgin “Laudi Alla vergine Maria” sung by the Nationaal Vrowen Jeugdkoor, Women’s Choir from the Nederlands.    Having set the stage for a celebrative work Stan goes to another CD, this one featuring the Choeur de Chambre de Namur and Les Agrémens led by Weiland Kuijken that brings to the light, a Gloria in G Major by Johann Christian Bach.  Although he received his early teaching from this father, he lived and worked with his second oldest half brother Carl Philip Emanuel Bach who was his senior.  Johann Christian moved to Malin and was employed for eight years where he was obliged to compose sacred works for the Cathedral.  It was during this time he composed the Gloria in G Major.  It sets at about 44 minutes and it is surprising the role that is given to the Orchestra. Many parts of this Gloria have double themes.  This was one of several sacred works that were played in a Swiss Monastery during the course of the 18^th Century and were considered masterpieces in the early years of Johann Christian’s  career.  The Gloria requires four soloists, Chorus and Orchestra.  This Gloria in G Major is well worth the listen or a performance, from a composer who is noted for influencing the concerto style for Mozart.   Check it out!!!

For a look at the CD’s used and a complete list of the music heard go to the blog of WWW.GONGBEYONDWORDS.COM website and click on show 2428