Bach, Johann Sebastian: Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring

Orchestration 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, 2 Clarinets in Bb, Bassoon 2 Horns in F, 2 Trumpets in Bb, Trombone Strings (Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Bass) Piano (optional), Voices (optional) Bach's original score was for SATB voices and strings, with 2 oboes doubling the first violin part and a trumpet playing the chorale melody. In this version the work can be performed with SATB voices or unison voices (singing the chorale melody), or as a purely instrumental piece. In this last case the minimum requirements are 1 oboe, 2 clarinets and strings and in this instance the oboe should never double the first violins, but should play the 2nd oboe part plus cues. The dynamic markings and bowings are editorial, and the keyboard part incorporates the chorale vocal parts as an aid to rehearsal.