It seems odd that after 8 posts the great master, J.S. Bach is nowhere to be found. That ends today! While I realize Christmas has passed, the "season" is still upon us...plus this is a great piece regardless.
Factoids:
- In the baroque and classical periods the sound of reed instruments is always associated with a pastoral setting.
- The Christmas Oratorio is split into 6 individual cantatas, labeled Parts I-VI.
- Part II emphasizes the tale of the Shepherds, making the reedy pastoral sound an appropriate opening for this cantata.
- Notice the entrance of the reeds around 45 seconds in.
- This same motive is repeated in the final chorale of Part II.
- Another fine example of this is the Pastoral Symphony in Part 1 of Messiah.
Enjoy!
No comments:
Post a Comment