Viola (solos: SATB - choir: SATB - 2.2(2ob d'am) 2ob da cac.0.1 - 2.3.0.0 - timp - str - bc) SKU: BR.OB-4949-19
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Choir; stapled. Orchester-Bibliothek (Orchestral Library). For the composition of the Christmas Oratorio, Bach made use of the parody method - as he did in other large vocal works as well - that is, he drew upon previously written pieces and skilfully adapted them to the new text. Oratorio/passion; Baroque. Part. 24 pages. Duration 160'. Breitkopf and Haertel #OB 4949-19. Published by Breitkopf and Haertel (BR.OB-4949-19). ISBN 9790004326312. 10 x 12.5 inches.
For the composition of the Christmas Oratorio, Bach made use of the parody method - as he did in other large vocal works as well - that is, he drew upon previously written pieces (here primarily from the Congratulatory Cantatas BWV 213 and 214) and skilfully adapted them to the new text. It is likely that Bach began working on the music during the Advent period of 1734. Besides the first performance which took place during the Christmas season 1734/35, it seems quite probable that other performances were held during Bachs lifetime, since the original, partly autographic performance material discloses traces of frequent use.
For the composition of the Christmas Oratorio, Bach made use of the parody method - as he did in other large vocal works as well - that is, he drew upon previously written pieces and skilfully adapted them to the new text.
