Our artistic director, Rudolf Lutz, set out to explore in detail the nature of the chorale cantata. Taking inspiration from the stellar example of Johann Sebastian Bach, Lutz chose a beloved chorale from our local region, Appenzellerland, as the basis of his composition. The resulting chorale cantata – Bachian in style, but original in content – is entitled “Alles Leben strömt aus dir” (All life flows from you). The subtitle “Landsgemeindekantate” (cantonal assembly cantata) reflects the cultural significance that this hymn holds for the people of eastern Switzerland; until 1997 the song was traditionally sung in four-part harmony at the annual assembly of all voting citizens in Appenzell Ausserrhoden. With the cantata “Alles Leben strömt aus dir”, the J. S. Bach Foundation is venturing into new territory. In our appreciation of historical performance practice, we do not want to stop at the correct use of period instruments and precise analysis of original texts and scores. Rather, by taking a free and original approach to the creation and interpretation of baroque music, we also want to bring new impetus and joy to contemporary composition and music making.