The cantata is scored for strings with oboe d’amore and flute obbligato. Both flute and oboe have solo movements, and only in the final recitative and aria does the ensemble play all together. The piece begins with a joyful blessing on the nuptial day and a lively aria in bright A major, which colours the “gentle swoon” with a wavy vocal line finishing on a long held E in order to emphasise the lulling effect of the song. The text twice refers specifically to the individual instruments, in the first aria suggesting “the delight of the strings strengthen and uplift” the soul. In the gentle, yet playful middle aria, the command, “Silence, you flutes, silence your tones”, goes unheeded as the flute carries on with extended runs which weave around the voice. The lilting E major aria with oboe suggests rest for the “weary notes”, each time painted with an elongated and tied note, while “tender harmony” is illustrated with a rising arpeggio. Bach’s “Great Patrons” are nobly represented by a courtly dance, and the wedding couple are celebrated in the last movement by a jubilant finale. This bright finale features trills which suggest banners snapping in the breeze and vocal coloratura sparkling like celebratory fireworks!

from notes by Gillian Keith © 2017