About
Bethany Seymour soprano
Robin Blaze countertenor
Jonathan Hanley tenor
Frederick Long bass
Peter Seymour conductor
Bach Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248
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 composed for the feast days of Christmas and New Year present Bach at his most festive and vibrant. Bach’s largest orchestral forces are contrasted with exquisitely beautiful solo instrumental and vocal music. Bound together, Bach’s musical compendium powerfully encapsulates rituals of belief, the diversity of the human spirit and an ecstatic joy in the Christmas message. Yorkshire Baroque Soloists concludes its fiftieth-anniversary year with this spectacular festival scoring – the largest orchestra Bach ever called for.
Partners
In association with York Early Music Christmas Festival and Yorkshire Bach Choir.
