Performance practice and analysis of Johann Sebastian Bach's Aria for tenor and flute obbligato, Wo wird in diesem Jammertale, from Cantata BWV 114

Abstract

This creative project explores the musical performer’s obligation to fully investigating traditional baroque performance practices, and how such study applies to Johann Sebastian Bach’s Wo wird in diesem Jammertale, a sacred aria for tenor, flute obbligato, and continuo from his Cantata BWV 114. This document researches major treatises on baroque performance practice, including Johann Joachim Quantz’s respected On Playing the Flute, to provide a thorough performance practice analysis of this aria. Furthermore, the author completes a formal theoretical analysis of the aria in order to further explore performance possibilities involving the relationship between text and harmonic structure. This project especially highlights specific ways to achieve both an educated preparation and more musically accurate performance of historical music using modern instruments.