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Mad River Chorale Redefines Holiday Music with Bach’s Christmas Oratorio
This holiday season, the Mad River Chorale is taking a bold step away from traditional musical renditions, featuring Part I of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Christmas Oratorio in English. Conducted by Mary Jane Austin, the chorale will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, at Waitsfield United Church of Christ, and at 4 p.m. on Sunday, December 15, at Waterbury Congregational Church.
The chorale, comprising 45 voices and a 14-piece chamber orchestra, will also showcase a range of works, including Gustav Holst’s “Christmas Day,” Elgar’s “The Snow,” Bruckner’s a cappella “Ave Maria,” along with two traditional carols arranged by Robert Shaw and Alice Parker. Attendees will have the chance to participate in singing popular Christmas carols and Handel’s famed “Hallelujah Chorus” with instrumental accompaniment.
Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, originally composed in 1734, consists of six cantatas intended for church services throughout the Christmas season. The Mad River Chorale has chosen to perform only Part I, which tells the story of "The Birth of Jesus" and features vibrant storytelling through the chorus "Rejoice, exult!" and various arias and chorales. With a talented lineup of soloists—soprano Lillian Broderick, mezzo-soprano Nessa Rabin, tenor Adam Hall, and bass Erik Kroncke—the performance promises an exhilarating experience.
Austin, now in her fifth year as director, has embraced the challenge of this ambitious program, highlighting the joyful character of Bach’s music. “It’s daunting — in a good way!” she said. The chorale’s decision to present Bach in the holiday repertoire aims to engage and inspire the local community, inviting everyone to witness this extraordinary celebration of music.
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Photo credit www.timesargus.com
