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Berlioz’s The Childhood of Christ

Berlioz’s Christmas oratorio, L’enfance du Christ, performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Chorus, Singers and star soloists, conducted by Edward Gardner.

Berlioz’s Christmas oratorio L’enfance du Christ. Edward Gardner conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Chorus, BBC Singers and star soloists.

Recorded at the Barbican on 17th December 2018
Presented by Martin Handley

BERLIOZ: L’Enfance du Christ

Karen Cargill (Mezzo-soprano)
Robert Murray (Tenor)
Etienne Dupuis (Baritone)
Matthew Rose (Bass)
BBC Singers (offstage Angels)
BBC Symphony Chorus
BBC Symphony Orchestra
Edward Gardner (Conductor)

Berlioz’s oratorio L’enfance du Christ (The Childhood of Christ) , home to the much-loved ‘Shepherds’ Farewell’ chorus, is a ravishing retelling of the Christmas story with echoes of Bach’s Passions. Premiered in 1854 the French composer’s inimitable stylistic fingerprints combine in the work to produce music of tender ‘celestial’ beauty, operatic flair, and dramatic instinct. Edward Gardner conducts a superb cast and continues the 90th birthday celebrations of the BBC Symphony Chorus.

2 hours, 28 minutes

Last on

Christmas Eve 201819:30
BBC Radio 3

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Bach's Christmas Oratorio - Parts 1-3

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Music Played

  • Hector Berlioz

    The Childhood of Christ

    Singer: Karen Cargill. Singer: Robert Murray. Singer: Étienne Dupuis. Singer: Matthew Rose. Choir: BBC Symphony Chorus. Choir: BBC Singers Women's Voices. Orchestra: BBC Symphony Orchestra. Conductor: Edward Gardner.

  • Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

    Symphony No 4 in F minor, Op 36

    Orchestra: St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Conductor: Yevgeny Mravinsky.
    • DG.

Broadcast

  • Christmas Eve 201819:30
    BBC Radio 3

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