Perhaps Bach's most famous aria. The solo violin plays a melody that sounds like human sobbing. It symbolizes Peter's remorse (and that of us all). The Alto voice and the violin engage in an intimate duet, intertwining in grief.
Peter's Denial
Erbarme dich, mein Gott
Aria
•Alto
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No. 41part_46
Have mercy,
My God, for the sake of my tears!
Look here,
Heart and eyes weep before thee
Bitterly.
German
English
Erbarme dich,
Mein Gott, um meiner Zähren willen!
Schaue hier,
Herz und Auge weint vor dir
Bitterlich.
Have mercy,
My God, for the sake of my tears!
Look here,
Heart and eyes weep before thee
Bitterly.
Modern adaptation
Have mercy, my God, for the sake of my tears! Look here: My heart and eyes weep bitterly before you.
Did you know?
The violin solo in this piece is considered one of the most beautiful in music history. Bach uses a 12/8 time signature (siciliano rhythm), which adds a rocking, comforting atmosphere to the grief.
Muziektheorie
De viool gebruikt korte pauzes tussen de noten. Dit heet 'Suspiratio' (zuchtfiguur). De pauzes zijn er niet voor ademhaling, maar stellen tranen voor - muzikale snikken.