J.S. Bach's Easter Cantata BWV 4

Capella Regalis Men & Boys Choir is pleased to present “Christ lag in Todesbanden” by J.S. Bach in an online video broadcast this Eastertide!

WATCH THE PERFORMANCE HERE.

The program booklet [PDF] is available below.

Composed by Bach in 1707 at the age of 22, the cantata is based on the eponymous Lutheran chorale, which is in turn based on the Gregorian chant Victimae Paschali. The tune emerges at every twist and turn throughout the work’s seven movements, creating a poignant piece of music filled to the brim with Bach’s particular contrapuntal brilliance.

Spaced in the architectural and acoustical splendour of Halifax’s Saint Mary’s Basilica, the men and boy choristers of Capella Regalis will be joined by members of Ensemble Regale to perform this magnificent work. The victory of life over death, such as described in the cantata’s German text, is sure to bring hope and joy to the world as it continues valiantly in the struggle against Covid-19 and celebrates the arrival of Spring.