Johann Sebastian Bach's "Christmas Oratorio," much like the grand master’s Passion concerts during Easter, has become an integral part of the Christmas tradition in European concert halls and churches. While the story of Christ's birth remains unchanged and the oratorio's melodies are easily recalled, Bach's monumental opus always fills listeners' hearts and minds with peaceful joy and sparkling delight. Bach composed the oratorio around Christmas time in 1734, intending it to be performed over six evenings, from Christmas to Epiphany.
Although Bach never heard his masterpiece performed in a single concert, the fragments of the oratorio arranged by conductor Kaspars Putniņš will allow audiences to experience both the story of Christ's birth and the incomparable magic of Bach's music.
Programme
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) - Christmas Oratorio Parts 1, 3, and 6.
Participants
Ilze Grēvele – soprano
Tīna Gelnere – mezzo
Nicholas Mulroy – tenor
Rihards Millers – bariton
Latvian Radio Choir
chamber orchestra Sinfonietta Riga,
Ilze Reine, organ
conductor - Kaspars Putniņš.
