A sequence of musical movements which are predominantly vocal and usually intended for use in Church, or for special occasions such as a Royal Birthday or welcome .

JS Bach was the foremost exponent, and his cantatas usually consisted of an opening concerted chorus for chorus and orchestra, to be followed by recitative sections and arias expressing religious sentiments, and concluding with a well-known Chorale or hymn which the congregation would probably join in with.

The texts were usually in German, consisting of Scripture or semi-poetic and reflective texts written by some of Bach’s most trusted collaborators.