Unabridged digitally enhanced large-format reissue of the vocal score prepared by musicologist Karl Straube and published by C.F. Peters, Leipzig in the early 20th century. Bach composed the initial version in E-flat major in 1723 for the Christmas Vespers in Leipzig which contained several Christmas texts. Over the years he removed the Christmas-specific texts to make it suitable for year-round performance, and transposed it to D major, providing better sonority for the trumpets. The work is divided into twelve parts which can be grouped into three movements, each beginning with an aria and completed by the choir. Matching full score and orchestral parts are also available from Serenissima Music (92488).