Contextual Analysis of Chorale Phrase Harmonizations by J.S. Bach

Example 6:  J.S. Bach, "Jesu, meine Freude" (Jesus, my joy)
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Score
SATB: SB:

Analytical Commentary
Like Example 4, this phrase incorporates a supertonic PD. Be sure to note the descending stepwise motion in the bass and melody. Note too the use of a minor dominant chord (v) at the beginning of the phrase. Sing, then compare and contrast the alto and tenor lines. In the very active tenor part, study the resolution of the dissonant d5 interval (C-F#). In the much smoother alto part, notice how the tonic E4s help to create a sense of anticipation of the arrival of the final T. {Chorale 263, mm. 1-2}