: A central emotional moment is the alto aria, " Schließe, mein Herze, dies selige Wunder " (Seal, my heart, this blessed miracle). This piece is often considered the only entirely new aria Bach wrote for the oratorio, as much of the rest of the work recycled music from his earlier secular cantatas.
: Unlike the other five cantatas, Part III ends by repeating its opening chorus , creating a festive "frame" that celebrates the completion of the three-day Christmas festival. Musical Structure Bach_Christmas_Oratorio.part3.rar
: Upon arrival, the shepherds find Mary, Joseph, and the infant lying in a manger. They spread the news of what they were told by the angels, leaving those who hear it amazed. : A central emotional moment is the alto
While Part I focuses on the birth of Jesus and Part II on the announcement to the shepherds, Part III concludes the "first cycle" by bringing these groups together in Bethlehem. Musical Structure : Upon arrival, the shepherds find
: Traditional Lutheran hymns that allow the congregation to reflect on the narrative. Herrscher des Himmels, erhöre das Lallen, BWV 248 III
: A tenor soloist who narrates the biblical text in recitative style.
Bach used a grand Baroque orchestra for this section, including , which lend the music a regal and celebratory tone. The 13 movements consist of: