Advent Calendar, Dec. 9: Bach's Christmas Oratorio, [1-3] Harnoncourt, 1982
I Wish This Could Reach Reiner Fuellmich In Prison
@benedictcowell6547
I am an agnostic but not when I listen to the Christmas Oratorio. I suspend my disbelief as soon as the opening chorus begins. There is no doubt possible
Harnoncourt, John Elliott Gardiner and Carl Richter in the past are THE master Bach interpreters. Wonderful choir and setting...Germany's totally amazing musical tradition (and preservation thereof) at their best.
Harnoncourt, Wikipedia
Excellent selection ! I've already been playing cantatas for a few days.
Nothing says music from the heavens quite like J.S. Bach. For years his Magnificat has been a personal seasonal favorite. Sublime in every way, it harkens me back to the household of my parents. I still own my Dad's classical music L.P.s collection.
Here's Harnoncourt conducting again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41blIyHQ0hs
And the same piece again a bit more up-tempo and with an equally enthusiastic conductor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9UYuBxxqS8
Thank you for this great performance. Chaconne and Christmas Oratorio are my Bach faves. But Magnificat comes close, preceded by fascinating sermon on Lutherans, Jews and the Magnificat at 16:00
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqUZKSkGrVY&list=PLd51ocY1UIC7yRNuUIu_9-E5s-fxrFEXT&index=1