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Classical Music/Johann Sebastian Bach - Christ Lag in Todesbanden

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Expert: - 12/12/2008


Question
I'm having trouble identifying the Latin Church mode upon which Bach's arrangement of "Christ Lag in Todesbanden" is based. I know that it is based on a traditional Latin church mode but cannot identify it specifically. I was wondering if you could help me identify it. Thank you much.

Answer
One of my favorite pieces!  

Note:  This chant is related to "Christ ist Erstanden," which is a nice bookend! For other readers:  "Christ Lag" is "Christ Lay in Death's Bonds."  The other is "Christ is Risen." See also "Victimae paschali laudes" ("Let Us Praise the Easter Lamb/Sacrifice.")

It's dorian mode, one of Bach's favorites.  Think of playing a C Major scale, but starting on D.  That's dorian mode.

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I have a PhD in musicology, with expertise in medieval - Renaissance - Baroque - Classical periods, but I'll try to help you with any period.

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