JS Bach: Christmas Oratorio

Bethany Seymour soprano, Nancy Cole mezzo soprano, Jonathan Hanley tenor, Frederick Long bass

with Yorkshire Bach Choir

​Written in 1734 when Bach was at the height of his considerable powers, the Christmas Oratorio (BWV 248) is rarely heard in its complete form.  Six cantatas written for the feast days of Christmas and New Year present Bach at his most festive and vibrant. Some of Bach’s largest orchestral forces are contrasted with exquisitely beautiful solo instrumental and vocal music. Bound together, Bach’s compendium of evolving musical style powerfully encapsulates rituals of belief, the diversity of the human spirit and an ecstatic joy in the Christmas message.

​In association with York Early Music Christmas Festival.