The “Bach Factory” is a video series by the J.S. Bach-Stiftung St. Gallen that gives you interesting insights into Bach’s cantatas – including exclusive excerpts from their live performance.

In this episode of Bach Factory, Xoán Castiñeira and Rudolf Lutz explore J.S. Bach’s cantata BWV 46, «Schauet doch und sehet, ob irgendein Schmerz sei». Bach composed this cantata very soon after starting his position as Thomaskantor in Leipzig on May 30th, 1723. The piece speaks about God’s fury at man’s sin and His mercy through Jesus. And at a closer look, it contains some interesting musical details – such as an almost operatic aria! Rudolf and Xoán help us understand why this is very special and unexpected for Bach.

The concert recording, introductory workshop and reflective lecture (in German) are available at Bachipedia.