Ralf Otto, the conductor, is known for his advocacy of historically informed performance practices in early music and for rediscovering forgotten compositions.
Recording & Production
This recording was made possible by the generous support of the Peter E. Eckes cultural foundation.
Compositional Technique
The Christmas Oratorio is not a homogeneous composition; its form and content are determined by its allocation to specific feast days and Sundays.
Compositional Technique
The opening chorus of Part One, "Jauchzet, frohlocket," is a parody of the opening chorus from Bach's earlier birthday cantata for Electress Maria Josepha (BWV 214).
Compositional Technique
In Part Two, Bach uses instruments typical of shepherds, like pipes and oboes, and specific melodies, keys, rhythms, and harmonies to create the tonal landscape of the shepherds.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Bach's large-scale oratorio compositions, including the Christmas Oratorio, reflect his intention to transfer the secular genre of 'Dramma per musica' to the religious sphere.
Composition History
Bach's Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, was intended to be performed on the feast days and Sundays between the First Christmas Day in 1734 and the Feast of Epiphany in 1735.
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