Concerto for Double String Orchestra

Alan Lumsden’s text from the original edition:

The Concerto for double string orchestra is a transcription of the first section of the double choir motet Singet dem Herren (BWV 225) transposed up a major third. As Tovey remarked, Bach's concerto forms are completely identical with his vocal forms and Bach himself frequently transcribed his and other composers' works from one medium to another. It is interesting that original instrumental parts to some of the double choir motets exist, although most choirs still insist on singing them as if they were unaccompanied. The ritornello form of the first movement makes it especially suitable for instrumental performance. In keeping with the concerto grosso style, some sections could well be played soli at the conductor's discretion. Editorial bowing and dynamic marks have been kept to a minimum as the enormous textural variety automatically produces a wide range of dynamic contrast.

The motet was probably written for the birthday celebrations for the Elector Friedrich Augustrus 'the Strong' of Saxony in 1727. The text is from the first three verses of Psalm 149:

Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.

Alan Lumsden