Theme: John's call for repentance.
Musical Expression: Stark motif in the viola, dissonant harmonies, and call-and-response textures to depict John's preaching.
Theme: The act of baptism.
Musical Expression: Fluid, flowing lines with a crescendo and key change to symbolize purification and change.
Theme: Divine affirmation of Jesus.
Musical Expression: Suspenseful passage leading to a powerful statement, with a soaring violin melody for the Holy Spirit.
Theme: Jesus' genealogy.
Musical Expression: Contrapuntal lines that build to a majestic theme, representing Jesus' divine heritage.
Theme: Anticipation of Jesus’ ministry.
Musical Expression: Optimistic, incorporating earlier motifs for a sense of resolution and hope.