Christmas Oratorio in Köln

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio (BWV 248) was originally composed to be performed in Leipzig’s two main churches – St Thomas and St Nicholas – over six feast days during the Christmas period.  Tonight’s programme will include all six parts with a cast of soloists featuring some of the most dynamic rising stars of the UK’s historical performance scene. 

The oratorio opens with the cantata composed for Christmas Day in which drums and bright flutes herald the birth of Jesus. We are propelled by some of Bach’s most joyful and gorgeous music until trumpets and timpani announce the of the Magi in Bethlehem at the festival of Epiphany in Part 6. 

Performers:

Madison Nonoa soprano
Hugh Cutting countertenor
Guy Cutting tenor
Florian Störtz bass-baritone
Masaaki Suzuki conductor
Choir of the Age of Enlightenment

Tickets are sold by Kölner Philharmonie.