Bruhns: Das Kantatenwerk

Nicolaus Bruhns' sublime album, Bruhns: Das Kantatenwerk, is a treasure trove of Baroque music, showcasing the composer's profound influence on the genre. Released in 1990 on the Ricercar label, this magnificent collection of 50 songs is a testament to Bruhns' innovative spirit and artistic genius.

The album features a range of captivating cantatas, including 'Hemmt eure Tränenflut', 'Jauchzet dem Herren alle Welt', and 'Wohl dem, der den Herren fürchtet', which demonstrate Bruhns' mastery of complex harmonies and expressive melodies. The programme is rounded off with the cantata 'Erbarm dich' by Ludwig Busbetzky, a pupil of Buxtehude and a notable figure in his own right. This cantata, once attributed to Buxtehude, is said to have inspired one of J.S. Bach's renowned chorale preludes.

Bruhns' own life was tragically cut short at the age of 32, but his legacy lives on through his remarkable music. This album, performed by esteemed artists such as Greta de Reyghere, Jill Feldman, and James Bowman, accompanied by the Ricercar Consort, is a fitting tribute to Bruhns' enduring impact on the world of classical music. With its rich textures and profound emotional depth, Bruhns: Das Kantatenwerk is an essential listening experience for anyone who appreciates the beauty and complexity of Baroque music.