re three trumpet parts, but the first and second trumpets open the first movement of this section with triplet figures (Example G). The first movement of the Sanctus is titled Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus, another reference to three. Also, the second mov
ent, Pleni sunt coeli, is set in three eight time. During this movement, the range and technique of the principal trumpeter are again tested. By this point in the mass, endurance begins to become a factor. It takes a very strong player to successfull
perform the mass through the end of the Sanctus, but the trumpet part is far from complete. Immediately following the taxing Pleni sunt coeli, the trumpets must again play at the beginning of the Osanna. As the Osanna nears its conclusion, the first t
mpet is again required to ascend to a high E before bringing the movement to a close. Bach then allows the trumpeters to rest for a short period. It is common practice for the Benedictus to be performed, then for the Osanna to be repeated, further tax
g the trumpet players. The Agnus Dei is the next to last movement of the mass, and the trumpets are allowed another brief rest, before the arrival of the Dona nobis pacem, which demands another showing of range and technique from the first trumpeter.
this monumental piece nears its conclusion, the trumpet ascends in half notes to a high D, then descends as the piece ends (Example H). As the trumpet sustains the high D, and the other lines continue to move under it, the magnificence of Bach?s great
ork is completely apparent.
In conclusion, the music of Johann Sebastian Bach represents one ofthe finest pieces in German music, and his Mass in B Minor is a wonderful example of his work and also his progressive uses of the trumpet. ?The Mass in B Minor appears to be the summa
not only of Bach?s sacred music, but of all of his music.20? Even though the people of Bach?s own time were never given the privilege of hearing his full mass setting, countless people since have experienced the joy of hearing this majestic piece. It
hard to believe that a man would work so hard, and commit such a sizable portion of his life to a project that would bring him no praise or acclamation during his life. Sebastian Bach was fully aware that his piece would not be performed in its intend
setting for many years to come, but these facts did not deter the composer from what he felt was a mission for God, and for the generations to come. ?So as he grew older, the B-Minor Mass must have seemed to him to be a bequest to his successors and t
the future.21? This selfless dedication to a cause is one of the many reasons that Johann Sebastian Bach remains one of the most well known and respected names in all of Music. The Bach family line of musicians culminated in Johann Sebastian Bach, and
carried the honor to astonishing heights. Few others in the history of music have made as monumental a contribution as his, and fortunately, people for many years to come will be able to experience the timeless masterpieces of this great man.
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