Lessons and Carols for Epiphany

Bach+ consort, J. Ernest Green, director

The Bach+ consort, under the direction of J. Ernest Green, will celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany with excerpts from both Handel’s Messiah and J. S. Bach’s monumental Christmas Oratorio. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio comprises six cantatas that intersperse the Gospel passages recounting the birth of Jesus, the visitation of the shepherd, and the adoration of the Magi, with poetic reflections on the narrative. It was first performed in 1734, beginning on Christmas Day and ending on Epiphany. It features some of Bach’s most colorful writing for soloists, chorus, and orchestra.  Handel’s Messiah, a perennial favorite, recounts the story of salvation across the three sections of the oratorio.  Excerpts from both will be combined to create a narrative that will follow a “lessons and carols” or “pageant” structure.

Click here to launch the video and download the program (PDF).