"I would gladly bear the cross-staff". A work for bass solo, this cantata is a declaration of confidence in God’s love through Jesus Christ. Even suffering and death, when received from God’s hand, can be received with joy.

"God alone shall possess my heart". A work for alto solo, this cantata is a response to the double-commandment of love, to love God above all things and your neighbour as yourself.

"Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled". A call to humility in the face of God’s glory and human sinfulness, with a prayer to Jesus to grant such humility.

"Christ, who is my life". A reflection on Jesus’ raising of the son of the widow of Nain, this cantata is built around four Lutheran funeral hymns. It expresses the Christian hope that death holds no fear for those whose Saviour Jesus is.

"Shout for joy to God in every land". An exuberant solo cantata for soprano, calling God’s people to praise Him for His faithfulness. This cantata closes with an extraordinary ’Alleluia’ for soprano and solo trumpet.

"Jesus, by whom my soul". A chorale cantata based on a hymn by Johann Rist, in which the Christian takes comfort in the sufferings of Jesus for our salvation.

"On you alone, Lord Jesus Christ". A chorale cantata based on a hymn by Konrad Huber, a reminder that our loving God is our only lasting hope.

"Spirit and soul are thrown into confusion". A solo cantata for the alto, based on Jesus’ healing of the deaf and mute man (Mark 7), marvelling at God’s miraculous care for His children. [Translation of the libretto]

"My heart swims in blood". This early solo cantata for soprano solo is a reflection on Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18), pleading for the forgiveness of sins.

"Take from us, Lord, you faithful God". A chorale cantata based on a penitential hymn by Martin Möller, begging for God’s merciful forgiveness of our sins and release from their just punishment.