About this Piece

Originally written as an aria for soprano, the familiar tune known as “Sheep May Safely Graze” (Schafe können sicher weiden) by Johann Sebastian Bach first appeared as part of a secular cantata, Was mir behagt, ist nur die muntre Jagd (What comforts me is only the spirited hunt), BWV 208. This was written in Leipzig for the 31st birthday celebration of Herzog Christian (Duke of Saxe-Weissenfels), in collaboration with Bach’s frequent librettist for cantatas, Salomo Franck (1659-1725). The arrangement for organ remains popular fare for joyous occasions such as weddings.