Wir glauben all an einen Gott, BWV 740

This chorale prelude with a double pedal part is based on the hymn "Wir glauben all an einen Gott, Vater". This is not the famous Luther version which has more text, but this is the shorter version of Tobias Clausnitzer with a different melody. The character of this 'Credo' is different compared to the Lutheran version; it's more static and distant in it's description of the Holy Trinity.

When you compare Bach's organ works based on the Lutheran Credo with BWV 740, you notice a different approach. That probably has to do with the different character I described. BWV 740 is solemn and obediently moving forward in stepping eighth notes. Then the cantus firmus appears almost as a voice from above, static but beautiful (I couldn't resist using the beautiful tremulant of the Bovenwerk). The end is surprising. Suddenly 32nd notes appear in the c.f., first it descends and then it ascends towards the closing note. It reminded me of some 'ad libitum' endings of North German baroque pieces.

Of course there are doubts about the origin of this work. There are versions that indicate Krebs, although it could be that he just wrote the notes of his teacher Bach down. Others say that the harmonies are weak, so it could not be Bach. Personally the harmonies have an immediate appeal to me, especially with the warmth of the double pedal line.