Bach’s Cantata 151, Süßer Trost, mein Jesus kömmt (Sweet comfort, my Jesus comes), was written for the third day of Christmas and first performed on December 27, 1725 in Leipzig.
One of my favorites of all the cantatas, I love the intimate scoring that Bach chose. In particular, the opening lullaby instills a special sense of calm for the Christmas season. Read more about the obbligato flute part in my earlier post.
And, enjoy this recording of the opening aria featuring Concerto Copenhagen with Maria Keohane, soprano, Katy Bircher, flute and Lars Ulrik Mortensen, organ and direction.