A page from the violino piccolo part of “Wachet auf” in Bach’s own hand (courtesy of Wikipedia)
Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme” was first performed on November 25, 1731, the 27th Sunday after Trinity. Based on the parable of the wise and foolish virgins (Matthew 25: 1-13), this message of this stunning cantata is central to Advent watchfulness.