Ich ruf zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ BWV 639
My organ tutor once suggested that almost every composer that ever lived would be happy with their output if this were the only piece they’d ever composed. The stunning simplicity and beautiful violin-like figures make this one of Bach’s most famous and enduring works.
Whilst not specifically a Passiontide chorale, the translation of Verse 1 demonstrates its suitability for this series:
I call to you, Lord Jesus Christ,
I pray, hear my lamentation,
bestow your grace on me at this time,
do not let me despair;
I think that I have the right faith, Lord,
which you wanted to give me,
to live for you,
to be useful to my neighbour,
to keep your word properly.
