The arrangement for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet All the lines need to be played legato. Accompaniments are in place enabling each of the parts to be practiced in an ensemble context. The realisation and accompaniments play back at 72 quarter note or crotchet bpm. This is music appropriate for reflection or a solemn procession. The singing of congregational chorales or hymn tunes was core to the Lutheran tradition as it became established in Germany from the 17th century. This is a Bach harmonisation of the chorale melody. The melody is attributed to H.L.Hassler dates from the early 17th century. Bach harmonised the melody several times for use in St Matthew Passion and the melody line is the basis an organ piece BWV 727. Chorales melodies are associated the times of the church year, texts and particularly moods and feelings expressed with texts. The melody for the Passion Chorale is often referenced in German with the text “Herzlich thut mich verlangen” whilst in English the hymn melody is associated with the hymn“O Sacred Head Sore Wounded” usually sung in Holy Week.
