Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 by Johann Sebastian Bach – Concert
Thursday, 18 December and Friday, 19 December at 7 p.m.
Bishop's Basilica of Philippopolis 

The International Radio Festival of Classical Music “Trimontiada” extends its festive invitation to all lovers of classical music for a delightful and unforgettable Christmas concert. In the spirit of the most cherished Christian holiday, the festival will present part of the brilliant Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 by Johann Sebastian Bach.
The Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 is a majestic work composed by Bach in 1734 to celebrate the Nativity of Christ. The oratorio consists of six separate cantatas. This year, “Trimontiada” offers a carefully selected musical focus. Cantata No. 1 will be performed in its entirety, as it was in 2023, when the Plovdiv audience also had the opportunity to hear Cantata No. 6. The program will be complemented by the most intense and striking musical masterpieces for soloists, choir, and orchestra, selected from Cantatas Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.
A stellar international ensemble will shine on stage: conductor – Peter Kooy (Netherlands), and soloists: Suzana Lukashevich (soprano), Aylis Dexter (alto), David Ferreira (tenor), Serge-Étienne Freitag (bass). Orchestra and Choir: Ivan Spasov Chamber Choir, Frank Martin Players Youth Chamber Orchestra (concertmaster Todor Georgiev). Choir conductor: Gergana Lutzkanova (Bulgaria).