La Cetra Barockorchester & Vokalensemble Basel will be continuing their exploration of Johann Sebastian Bach's monumental choral works during Advent. Under the direction of Andrea Marcon, and together with renowned soloists, they will be performing the "Christmas Oratorio" for the first time (!), presenting four of the six cantatas.
Especially in German-speaking countries, this work has become one of Bach's most popular works since the mid-20th century and is performed at the end of the year in both concert halls and numerous churches. The six independent sections of the oratorio were originally written for festive services in Leipzig's Lutheran churches of St. Thomas and St. Nicholas between Christmas morning 1734 and Epiphany 1735, and were therefore not intended to be performed together.
Meanwhile, however, a tradition has been established whereby several sections are played together. The "Christmas Oratorio" tells of the first days of Christ's life: in parts I-III, of his birth, the arrival of the shepherds, and the adoration of the child; in part IV, of the circumcision and naming of the child; and in parts V and VI, of the Three Kings. The structure is similar to Bach's famous Passions, as this oratorio also consists of a balanced mix of recitatives, contemplative arias, religious chorales, and complex chorales, all sung in German.
Tickets are CHF 45-155 and CHF 20 for students.

Website
lacetra.ch/en/konzerte/weihachtsoratorium/

Where
Stadtcasino Basel
Konzertgasse 1
4051 Basel

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