Cosmic, Intimate Atonement

J. S. Bach’s Cantata 140, ‘Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme,’ is a masterful synthesis of individual and communal, intimate and cosmic experiences. Through aria, recitative and chorus it weaves together a multi-layer narrative that invokes communion, bridal mysticism and the end-times. These contrasts and intersections heighten the listeners’ experiences of passionate, divine love.