The motets written during Bach's first years in Leipzig stand apart from other sacred music because they were not composed for the regular church liturgy, but for private occasions instead. Compared to 'modern' cantatas they are relatively conservative in style, and belong to the tradition of vocal polyphony that reached its peak in the 16th century. The choir is not backed by an orchestra, but only a simple instrumental accompaniment with basso continuo. To compensate for the missing orchestra, the vocal score is even more complex and finely detailed than usual. On this disc the Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks under its artistic director Howard Arman present a selection of Bach's most famous motets: Jesu, meine Freude (Jesus, my joy), BWV 227, for five-part choir and the four motets for double choir Singet dem Herr ein neues Lied (Sing to the Lord a new song), BWV 225, Der Geist hilft unser Schwachheit auf (The Spirit gives aid to our weakness), BWV 226, Fürchte dich nicht (Do not be afraid), BWV 228, and Komm, Jesu, komm (Come, Jesus, come), BWV 229.