Bach: Die Kindheit Jesu

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach's "Die Kindheit Jesu" (The Infancy of Jesus), a captivating oratorio that beautifully narrates the story of Jesus' childhood. This album, released on October 4, 2011, under the Capriccio label, is a reissue of a 1988 recording, offering a timeless exploration of Bach's compositional prowess.

Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach, the fifth son of the renowned Johann Sebastian Bach, was a distinguished composer and harpsichordist in his own right. Though often overshadowed by his more famous brother Carl Philipp Emanuel, his work stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bach family in classical music.

"Die Kindheit Jesu" is a profound and moving work that combines choral and solo pieces to depict the biblical narrative. The album features a stellar performance by Hermann Max, accompanied by the Rheinische Kantorei and Das Kleine Konzert, with soloists from the Soloists' Association of Trossingen and the Chorus of the Martin Luther Church. The piece is divided into various sections, including recitatives, arias, chorales, and choruses, each contributing to the overall narrative and emotional depth of the work.

The album also includes selections from "Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme," a well-known chorale by Johann Christoph Friedrich Bach, adding another layer of spiritual and musical richness to the collection. With a total duration of 51 minutes, this album is a perfect blend of sacred music, historical significance, and artistic brilliance, making it a cherished addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.