With the traditional biblical account as its backbone, Bach first composed the lyrics for his Weihnachtsoratorium, thus creating a ‘Christmas movie’ before its time. Yet he was not entirely original in doing so: he recycled works he had previously written for an anniversary or other festive event – and thereby ensured they would live forever.

With the traditional biblical account as its backbone, Bach first composed the lyrics for his Weihnachtsoratorium, thus creating a ‘Christmas movie’ before its time. Yet he was not entirely original in doing so: he recycled works he had previously written for an anniversary or other festive event – and thereby ensured they would live forever.

In this six-part work, Bach the master storyteller takes us along from Christmas Day to Epiphany. The parts fit together well, but were not intended to be performed all together: Bach wrote them to be performed during the religious services on six feast days within the Christmas period. We have made a selection for this concert: parts 1, 2, 3 and 6 carry forward the narrative line nicely, and together make for a festive Christmas in all its glory.

“I have frequently experienced in person how many people in Germany prepare for Christmas with the Weihnachtsoratorium: as a hope-filled soundtrack that brings light to the darkness of the days of December. I very much hope to convey that feeling to our audience.” Bart Van Reyn, music director

programme

Johann Sebastian Bach
Weihnachtsoratorium, BWV 248

*with soprano Viola Blanche on 17 & 22 December
* with soprano
Deborah Cachet on 20 December

discover more

programme notes

A jubilant opening chorus, drum roll and trumpets: Bach’s Weihnachtsoratorium (Christmas Oratorio) is pure joy, an ode to the miraculous birth of Christ.

read more about the music

practical

update: consultative committee 3 December 2021

From Monday 6 December onwards, indoor events and concerts are limited to 200 sitting audience members. Ticket holders will be contacted by Concertgebouw Brugge and ticket sales for this concert with limited capacity will be restarted. More info at www.concertgebouw.be.

🎟️🎫 €49 > €13

Venue: Concertgebouw Brugge

Location: ’t Zand 34 | 8000 Bruges
Phone: +32 70 22 12 12
Online: www.concertgebouw.be

safety measures Concertgebouw Brugge

buy tickets

read also