“Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” is a beautiful and beloved Baroque era chorale. It is a setting of a hymn by Johann Franck, a 17th-century German Lutheran pastor.
The melody for this hymn was composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Bach incorporated this melody into his cantatas, most notably in Cantata 147, “Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben.”
The melody is simple and elegant, and it has become a classic of the Baroque repertoire. The hymn is often performed as a standalone piece, particularly during Advent and Christmas seasons.
The text of the hymn expresses deep devotion and longing for Jesus Christ. It speaks of his love, grace, and peace, and it invites listeners to contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation.
The melody perfectly complements the text, conveying a sense of both reverence and joy.
Adapted for String Quartet
Score & Individual Parts
