Credits:

Ralf Otto

Description:

J.S. Bachs Christmas Oratorio is a collection of cantatas written for the Christmas season of 1734. It is a vast work consisting of six parts; while some movements were adapted from earlier cantatas, the entire piece flows so naturally that it is said Bach originally conceived the work with the intention of reusing these movements later. The resplendent orchestral and choral melodies of the opening movement, Lift Up Your Voices and Rejoice, possess a grandeur truly befitting the celebration of Christs birth, and hearing this section alone is enough to make your heart leap with joy. Ralph Otto conducts on this album. While there is a renowned performance from 1991 in which he conducted the Concerto Kln, this is his latest recording from 2018. He masterfully guides his regular ensemble, the Mainz Bach Orchestra and Choir, delivering a performance of the highest caliber.Naxos Japan