Johann Sebastian Bach – Christmas Oratorio BWV 248
Christmas Oratorio by Johann Sebastian Bach stands among the greatest sacred works of the Baroque era. Written in 1734, it tells the story of Christ’s birth through a cycle of six cantatas intended for performance during the thirteen days of the Lutheran Christmas season.
A complete Christmas narrative
Like the St. Matthew and St. John Passions, this oratorio is narrated by an Evangelist and includes arias and recitatives influenced by the Italian operatic style. Each cantata corresponds to a specific feast day, allowing the story to unfold musically across the Christmas period.
Libretto and composition
The text was most likely written by Christian Friedrich Henrici (Picander), Bach’s frequent collaborator. The work combines profound spirituality with vibrant musical invention, celebrating the joy of the Nativity with radiant choruses and lyrical solos.
Bärenreiter Urtext edition
This Urtext vocal score from Bärenreiter is based on the authoritative Neue Bach Edition, offering an accurate and scholarly presentation of Bach’s masterpiece. Ideal for choirs, conductors, and scholars seeking authenticity and clarity.
| Genres | Choral |
| Format | Vocal Score |
| Level | 1 |
| NumberOfPages | 246 |
| Media | Sheet Music |
| Publisher | Bärenreiter-Verlag |
| Contributors | Sebastian Bach, Johann(Composer) |
| Language | English, German, International, International (more than one language) |
| ISMN | 9790006461660 |