Kuhnau: Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern

Johann Kuhnau’s cantata “Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern” is based on the chorale of the same name by Philipp Nicolai from 1599 and uses two verses of it in the opening and closing movements. The other texts are based on various biblical passages, but have no direct references to the other chorale verses. Due to the unknown text, the date of composition is also uncertain; but the two horns used, along with the “flauti” in aria no. 4, which are presumably transverse flutes, are an indication of a late composition from 1718 onwards. The same applies to the tenor soloist, who is the only solo voice to emerge here and whose range corresponds exactly to that which is common in Johann Sebastian Bach’s vocal works. There are also parallels to the choral cantata “Welt adieu, ich bin dein müde” (PB/OB 32092), which can be dated to 1719 or 1720.

Like various other works by Kuhnau, the cantata is well suited for use in church services due to its short duration and compact form. The scoring with two horns and flutes in addition to two violins, violas and basso continuo contributes to the festive atmosphere. A choir can be used flexibly depending on the size and abilities of the ensemble.