Classical Music | Piano Music

Johann Sebastian Bach

Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (from Cantata No. 147)  Play

Jason Peterson Piano

Recorded on 02/22/2005, uploaded on 01/20/2009

Musician's or Publisher's Notes

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring         Bach/Hess

This chorale, from Bach's Cantata no. 147, was originally scored for trumpet, oboe, strings, and organ.  The melody's popularity today is due almost entirely to the incredibly successful arrangement by Myra Hess (1890 - 1965), the legendary British pianist.  Myra Hess held Bach in the highest regard throughout her life.  She was very much impressed by the beauty of this chorale and often improvised it at the piano, finally publishing the piece in 1926. Her transcription perfectly expresses the character of the original. Dame Myra indicates the piece should be "Simple and Flowing," but the technique required is anything but simple. The voicing throughout represents the challenge of this piece, such as when the tenor or the soprano "solo parts" emerge from the general texture.   Jason Peterson

Listeners' Comments        (You have to be logged in to leave comments)

My father was a professional pianist/accompianist and he used to play this for me, so whenever I hear it, I think of him...I just love this.

Submitted by suepal on Sat, 09/17/2011 - 15:53. Report abuse

I have always loved this composition! Makes my heart happy : )

Submitted by otjda63 on Mon, 06/08/2015 - 10:56. Report abuse