Rhetorics of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Orgelbüchlein: An Introduction with a Case Study of BWV 614
Rhetorics of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Orgelbüchlein: An Introduction with a Case Study of BWV 614

Summary/Abstract: The paper presents an examination of the interplay of music and lyrics in the Orgelbüchlein by Johann Sebastian Bach that summarises some of the earlier findings in this area and outlines a wider context of the studies concerning the relationship of rhetoric and music. The attention is devoted to the affect theory and the musical rhetorical figures theory. Parallels in creating speech and music are discussed as well; this element of musical rhetoric is the least prominent in Orgelbüchlein, but the interpretation of its chorales in terms of inventio, dispositio and elocutio seems legitimate. Finally, a remark is made of the significant influence of the Lutheran tradition, which elevated music, seeing it as a means for the efficient spreading of faith and teaching the Gospel. The paper concludes with a case study of chorale Das alte Jahr vergangen ist BWV 614.

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