Triumph, rejoicing, rise, praising these days now, BWV 248/1
Herr, wenn die stolzen Feinde schnauben, BWV 248/6
Ruler of heaven, give ear to our stammer, BWV 248/3
Glory to thee, God, be sounded, BWV 248/5
Fall and thank him, fall and praise him, BWV 248/4
And there were shepherds in that very region, BWV 248/2

“Jauchzet, frohlocket, auf, preiset die Tage!” (Triumph, rejoicing, rise, praising these days now!) – The uplifting effect of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio cannot be explained solely in terms of its masterly orchestration and clever use of parody technique. Opening with resounding timpani strokes, the spirited music of the introductory chorus bypasses every rational response and cuts straight to the heart, soul and even the feet of listeners, who will want to leap from their church pews – or desk chairs – such is the irresistible power of this vibrant composition.

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