Orgelbüchlein 1 - Nun komm der Heiden Heiland (BWV 599)

Bach's Orgelbüchlein (BWV 599-644) is truly a treasure chest of masterly compositions tracing the annual Lutheran liturgical calendar. The young Bach began the establishment of his intended full cycle of 164 chorale introductions in 1708 while working at the Weimar Court; however, he never completed this intention. The title page (from 1720) translates as:

"Little Organ Book -- In which a beginning organist receives given instruction as to performing a chorale in a multitude of ways while achieving mastery in the study of the pedal, since in the chorales contained herein the pedal is treated entirely obbligato.

"In honour of our Lord alone | That my fellow man his skill may hone. Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, Capellmeister to his Serene Highness the Prince of Anhalt-Cöthen"

The current chorale BWV 599 begins the cycle of Advent and Christmas compositions BWV 599-512. The striking nature of this opening composition stresses the tenderness and intimacy of the supplication: the hymn is not just an "announcement" but a deeply mystical prayer of devotion. I've tried to stress this in my interpretation.

And what pleasure is the organ: the 1742 Gottfried Silbermann organ in the Stadtkirche, Zöblitz (Saxony) is one of the well-preserved jewels of Germany's Silbermann organ collection!