Expert: David Froom - 9/22/2008

Question
Hello. I'm trying to identify a piece by J.S. Bach. It's a very recognisable piece, and it's gnawing at me. I would appreciate any help you could give. Thank you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hdMJVWQjGs

Answer
This is an aria by Bach.  It is called, in English, "Sheep May Safely Graze" (in German, "Schafe können sicher weiden").  It is from Cantata No. 208, which is also called "The Hunt" Cantata (in German, "Jagdkantate").  The name comes from the chorale upon which the cantata is based, "Was mir behagt," which has the translation of its opening line:  "All that gives me pleasure is the cheerful hunt."

I hope this helps.  You should have no trouble finding a recording of this aria, nor of the whole cantata.

David Froom