Colorado Bach Ensemble: Cantata Insights Series: O ewiges Feuer, o Ursprung der Liebe, BWV 34

"Adapted from a wedding cantata (BWV 34a), the structure of Cantata 34, O ewiges Feuer, o Ursprung der Liebe (O Eternal Fire, O Source of Love) is quite simple: an opening chorus, recitative, aria, recitative, and closing chorus. The centerpiece alto aria, accompanied by two flutes and strings, is particularly sublime and contemplative. In contrast, the glorious opening and closing choruses are rousing and festive, accompanied by energetic strings, oboes, trumpets, timpani, and continuo. Bach pairs the soprano with a plaintive oboe obbligato, and the bass sings along with a virtuosic violin solo."