In the first three cantatas of his Christmas Oratorio, Johann Sebastian Bach creates a musical portrait of the story surrounding the birth of Jesus, which is full of light, hope, and deep emotion. From the triumphant rejoicing at the birth of Christ (“Jauchzet, frohlocket! – Rejoice, exult!”), to the touching scene with the shepherds, and finally to the first encounter with the newborn child, Bach’s music brings the miracle of Christmas vividly to life. Splendidly orchestrated and heartfelt, the three cantatas unite Baroque festivity with spiritual depth — a work that touches both heart and soul, making the message of Christmas tangible in every note.
