Bach's Christmas Oratorio

Bach: Christmas Oratorio, parts 1, 2, 3 & 6

Polyphony, the Britten Sinfonia and Stephen Layton perform Bach’s seasonal masterpiece.
With a cast of outstanding young baroque specialists stepping out from one of the world's finest choirs, this performance from Saffron Hall promises to be a seasonal treat.
From the exuberant trumpets announcing the Birth of Christ to the gentle pastorals which accompany the Adoration of the Shepherds, Bach's music - with its brilliant choruses and tender arias - takes us on an uplifting journey through the Christmas story.

Presented by Martin Handley.

Part I: Christmas Day (Birth of Jesus)
Part II: December 26 (Annunciation to the shepherds)
Interval
Part III: December 27 (Adoration of the shepherds)
Part VI: Epiphany (Adoration of the Magi)

Soloists to include:

Zoë Brookshaw and Lucy Cox (sopranos)
Ciara Hendrick and Angharad Rowlands (mezzo sopranos)
Sebastian Hill and Archie Inns (tenors)
Malachy Frame and Jon Stainsby (baritone/bass)

Polyphony
Britten Sinfonia, Stephen Layton (conductor)

Recorded 13 Dec 2025 at Saffron Hall, Essex, an award-winning 740-seat performance space built in the grounds of Saffron Walden County High School.

To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert'.