Describe and compare our excerpts (both the Hallelujah Chorus and “Rejoice Greatly, O Daughter of Zion”) from G. F. Handel’s Messiah and J. S. Bach’s Cantata No. 140 Wachet Auf. Topics could include the historical or social context of each composition and the composers’ background. You may also address the use of musical elements such as sound, instrumentation, melody, rhythm/meter, harmony/tonality, and form. Note similarities as well as differences. Your submission should be in the range of 150–250 words. Refer to the Listening Journal Rubric for more information.
G. F. Handel’s Messiah and J. S. Bach’s Cantata No. 140 Wachet Auf are two compositions that are known for their powerful music and engaging stories of hope, joy, and glory in the face of adversity. Both composers have a long history of creating works with religious themes, so it is not surprising that both these excerpts explore themes related to faith and redemption from a Christian perspective in different ways.
The Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah captures the exuberant energy of praise and celebration through its dramatic use of orchestration, chorus singing, and lively tempo (allegro). Its bright tonality combined with soaring melodies creates an overwhelmingly joyful atmosphere that really captures the jubilant spirit of rejoicing described in the lyrics (“King of kings forever…Alleluia!”).
In contrast, Bach’s “Rejoice Greatly O Daughter Of Zion” from his Cantata No 140 Wachet Auf is more introspective in its approach as it tells a story about waiting patiently for provisions during difficult times (recitative). The solo soprano vocal line soars above gentle string accompaniment to create an ethereal atmosphere that conveys feelings solitude longing but also hope for the future (“Behold your God…He will raise you up”). The shift towards a major key at the end reinforces this sense of optimism as we get closer to resolution (“Thy heart shall live forever”).
Ultimately, both works seek to express heroic stories full depth emotion using musical elements like melody rhythm meter harmony/tonality form evoke strong emotions within listeners who might relate such difficulties faith redemption their own lives.