Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Johann Sebastian Bach's masterpiece, the Christmas Oratorio (Weihnachts-Oratorium), BWV 248. This exquisite collection, released on January 1, 1998, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, is a cornerstone of classical music, spanning a captivating 74 minutes. Composed for performance during the Christmas season, this oratorio is a profound exploration of faith, joy, and the divine, divided into six parts that span from Christmas Day to the Epiphany.
The album features a stunning array of choral and orchestral works, showcasing Bach's unparalleled ability to blend sacred text with sublime music. From the jubilant opening chorus "Jauchzet, frohlocket, auf, preiset die Tage" to the serene and reflective aria "Schlafe, mein Liebster, geniesse der Ruh," each piece is a testament to Bach's genius and his deep spiritual insight. The performances are brought to life by the Münchener Bach-Orchester and conducted by the renowned Karl Richter, ensuring a rendition that is both authentic and deeply moving.
Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Bach's works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The Christmas Oratorio is not just a collection of songs; it is a journey through the essence of the holiday season, capturing the essence of joy, reflection, and celebration. Let the timeless melodies and harmonies of Johann Sebastian Bach's Christmas Oratorio enrich your holiday season and beyond.
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 1, Chorus. Jauchzet, frohlocket, auf, preiset die TageJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 4, Aria. Bereite dich, Zion, mit zärtlichen TriebenJohann Sebastian Bach, Christa Ludwig, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 7, Chorale & Recit. Er ist auf Erden kommen arm – Wer will die Liebe recht erhöhnJohann Sebastian Bach, Franz Crass, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 8, Aria. Großer Herr, o starker KönigJohann Sebastian Bach, Franz Crass, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 9, Chorale. Ach mein herzliebes JesuleinJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 10, Sinfonia pastoraleJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 12, Chorale. Brich an, o schönes MorgenlichtJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 15, Aria. Frohe Hirten, eilt, ach eiletJohann Sebastian Bach, Fritz Wunderlich, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 / Part Two - For the second Day of Christmas: No. 19 Aria (Alto): "Schlafe, mein Liebster, geniesse der Ruh"Johann Sebastian Bach, Christa Ludwig, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 21, Chorus. Ehre sei Gott in der HöheJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 36, Chorus. Fallt mit Danken, fallt mit LobenJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 38, Recit & Arioso. Immanuel, o süßes Wort! – Jesu, du mein liebstes LebenJohann Sebastian Bach, Franz Crass, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 39, Aria. Flösst, mein Heiland, flösst dein NamenJohann Sebastian Bach, Gundula Janowitz, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 41, Aria. Ich will nur dir zu Ehren lebenJohann Sebastian Bach, Fritz Wunderlich, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 6: No. 57, Aria. Nur ein Wink von seinen HändenJohann Sebastian Bach, Gundula Janowitz, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 6: No. 64, Chorale. Nun seid ihr wohl gerochenJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor