With the traditional biblical account as its backbone, Bach first composed the lyrics for his Weihnachtsoratorium, thus creating a ‘Christmas movie’ before its time. Yet he was not entirely original in doing so: he recycled works he had previously written for an anniversary or other festive event – and thereby ensured they would live forever.

With the traditional biblical account as its backbone, Bach first composed the lyrics for his Weihnachtsoratorium, thus creating a ‘Christmas movie’ before its time. Yet he was not entirely original in doing so: he recycled works he had previously written for an anniversary or other festive event – and thereby ensured they would live forever.

In this six-part work, Bach the master storyteller takes us along from Christmas Day to Epiphany. The parts fit together well, but were not intended to be performed all together: Bach wrote them to be performed during the religious services on six feast days within the Christmas period. We have made a selection for this concert: parts 1, 2, 3 and 6 carry forward the narrative line nicely, and together make for a festive Christmas in all its glory.

“I have frequently experienced in person how many people in Germany prepare for Christmas with the Weihnachtsoratorium: as a hope-filled soundtrack that brings light to the darkness of the days of December. I very much hope to convey that feeling to our audience.” Bart Van Reyn, music director