Cape Consort: Bach & Telemann

The Cape Consort returns in the Spring, in a concert with the fitting theme of transformation and renewal. The concert features Durban based Margrit Deppe on Baroque oboe and Antoinette Blyth, soprano, in two J.S. Bach cantatas for soprano solo, Baroque oboe obbligato and strings: BWV 199 Mein Herze Schwimmt in Blut and the Wedding Cantata BWV 202 Weichet nur, betrübte Schatten. Also on the program is the oboe concerto in e minor by Telemann.

Mein Herze schwimmt in Blut depicts a transformation from distress to the joy of redemption. It also highlights the contrasts between personal and communal faith, individual belief and collective doctrine, which are a regular feature in Bach’s sacred music. Weichet nur, betrübte Schatten begins with an image of the gloom of winter being transformed into the joys of spring, the time for love and commitment. Even though it is a secular cantata, the coming together of two souls in love and good fortune is compared to the ultimate journey to heaven.