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Today in History: Bach premieres new cantata BWV 39 on Trinity Sunday

6/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 23 June 1726, Johann Sebastian Bach premiered his church cantata Brich dem Hungrigen dein Brot, BWV 39, in Leipzig on the first Sunday after Trinity. The piece belongs to his third cantata cycle (1725-27) and features an ambitious opening chorus that showcases his mastery of counterpoint. He had been Thomaskantor since 1723, directing weekly cantatas for the Lutheran liturgy.

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Story summary

On 23 June 1726, Johann Sebastian Bach premiered his church cantata Brich dem Hungrigen dein Brot, BWV 39, in Leipzig on the first Sunday after Trinity. The piece belongs to his third cantata cycle (1725-27) and features an ambitious opening chorus that showcases his mastery of counterpoint. He had been Thomaskantor since 1723, directing weekly cantatas for the Lutheran liturgy.