Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring was composed by Johann Sebastian Bach based on a chorale from Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben (Heart and Mouth and Deed and Life), BWV 147.
This post covers a fingerpicking arrangement of this piece including guitar tabs. This piece is ideal for intermediate to advanced levels. Grab your guitar and let’s get started!
Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring guitar tabs
This piece is written in a 9/8 time signature, meaning that 9 eighth notes make up each measure. The numbers next to some notes on the top staff indicate which fingers to use on the fretting hand. If needed, you can refer to this simple guide to understanding music symbols.
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring lyrics
Lyrics by Martin Janus, translation by Robert Seymour Bridges
Verse 1:
Jesus, joy of our desiring,
holy wisdom, love most bright;
drawn by thee, our souls aspiring
soar to uncreated light.
Word of God, our flesh that fashioned,
with the fire of life impassioned,
striving still to truth unknown,
soaring, dying round thy throne.
Verse 2:
Through the way where hope is guiding,
hark, what peaceful music rings;
where the flock, in thee confiding,
drink of joy from deathless springs.
Theirs is beauty’s fairest pleasure;
theirs is wisdom’s holiest treasure.
Thou dost ever lead thine own
in the love of joys unknown.
To learn another popular piece by Bach, check out Bouree in E minor.
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Want to learn more songs? Check out the sheet music with guitar tabs resource on this site.
All the best,
JG Music Lessons
References:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. wikipedia.org
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. hymnary.org
