BWV725 is a massive five-part setting of Luther’s text of the Te Deum that effectively follows the verses of the chorale, keeping in the main its conventional chorale-like homophonic texture, though amplifying it through the addition of an extra voice. Interest is given by the inner parts, with running quavers and passing notes that seem to reference specific words of the text, such as ‘angels’ and ‘divine power’. The setting, perhaps designed to be played as an accompaniment to liturgical chant, shows Bach’s contrapuntal mastery, displayed within the constraints of a chorale texture to give great power and gravitas.

from notes by George Parsons © 2019