MUSIC SUNDAY: Dietrich Buxtehude: Eins bitte ich, vom Herrn

Dietrich Buxtehude (1637-1707) was born in Denmark, though he is considered both Danish and German by scholars. His musical reputation is firmly rooted in compositions for organ, but as music director at St. Mary’s in Lübeck, he composed (likely) hundreds of cantatas, one of which the Motet Choir is preparing at present. Much of his music was undiscovered until the 20th Century, and as one could guess, much of it was lost as well.

Buxtehude famously had such influence over both J.S. Bach and Handel that the former walked over 200 miles to meet him while the latter paid a visit in Lübeck when he was just 18 years old. In a tale that has likely grown in detail for a few hundred years (but is cited in Britannica!), both Bach and Handel were hoping to succeed Buxtehude at St. Mary’s, but neither found Buxtehude’s daughter attractive – and a marriage to her was unfortunately part of the deal. It worked out fine for both gentlemen as they somehow mustered on and built modest musical careers elsewhere!

Eins bitte ich, vom Herrn is a charming cantata for chorus, soloists, and small orchestra – quintessential Baroque “good mood music!” The text of the opening chorus paraphrases: One thing I pray from the Lord, that I may stay in the house of the Lord the whole of my life, and witness the Lord’s beautiful divine services and visit his temple. The other texts hint at Lenten themes, though the music remains joyous and humble, so it is a lovely musical bridge as we change church seasons.

–Matthew Culloton, Choirmaster