Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Johann Sebastian Bach's "The Angels of Christmas," a captivating collection of selections from his renowned Christmas Oratorio (Weihnachts-Oratorium), BWV 248. Released in 1994 under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album offers a serene and spiritually uplifting journey through some of Bach's most celebrated choral and solo works.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, the album features 16 tracks that encapsulate the essence of the Christmas season. From the jubilant opening chorus "Jauchzet, frohlocket, auf, preiset die Tage" to the tender aria "Schlafe, mein Liebster, geniesse der Ruh," each piece is a testament to Bach's masterful composition and profound musical expression. The album also includes beloved chorales such as "Ach mein herzliebes Jesulein" and "Nun seid ihr wohl gerochen," which resonate with timeless melodies and heartfelt devotion.
Performed with exquisite artistry and precision, "The Angels of Christmas" showcases the rich harmonies and intricate counterpoint that Bach is celebrated for. The album's recording dates, from May 16, 1994, to July 14, 1994, reflect a period of meticulous preparation and performance, ensuring an authentic and immersive listening experience.
Whether you are a devoted fan of classical music or seeking to explore the works of one of history's most influential composers, this album is a treasure trove of musical brilliance. Bach's ability to convey the joy, reverence, and spiritual depth of the Christmas season through his compositions makes "The Angels of Christmas" a cherished addition to any music collection.
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 1, Chorus. Jauchzet, frohlocket, auf, preiset die TageJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 4, Aria. Bereite dich, Zion, mit zärtlichen TriebenJohann Sebastian Bach, Christa Ludwig, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 7, Chorale & Recit. Er ist auf Erden kommen arm – Wer will die Liebe recht erhöhnJohann Sebastian Bach, Franz Crass, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 8, Aria. Großer Herr, o starker KönigJohann Sebastian Bach, Franz Crass, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 9, Chorale. Ach mein herzliebes JesuleinJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 10, Sinfonia pastoraleJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 12, Chorale. Brich an, o schönes MorgenlichtJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 15, Aria. Frohe Hirten, eilt, ach eiletJohann Sebastian Bach, Fritz Wunderlich, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 / Part Two - For the second Day of Christmas: No. 19 Aria (Alto): "Schlafe, mein Liebster, geniesse der Ruh"Johann Sebastian Bach, Christa Ludwig, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 2: No. 21, Chorus. Ehre sei Gott in der HöheJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 36, Chorus. Fallt mit Danken, fallt mit LobenJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 38, Recit & Arioso. Immanuel, o süßes Wort! – Jesu, du mein liebstes LebenJohann Sebastian Bach, Franz Crass, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 39, Aria. Flösst, mein Heiland, flösst dein NamenJohann Sebastian Bach, Gundula Janowitz, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 4: No. 41, Aria. Ich will nur dir zu Ehren lebenJohann Sebastian Bach, Fritz Wunderlich, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 6: No. 57, Aria. Nur ein Wink von seinen HändenJohann Sebastian Bach, Gundula Janowitz, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter
Weihnachts-Oratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 6: No. 64, Chorale. Nun seid ihr wohl gerochenJohann Sebastian Bach, Münchener Bach-Orchester, Karl Richter, Münchener Bach-Chor