Bach Musica Presents ‘A French Christmas’

Bach Musica Presents ‘A French Christmas’

First performed in the Salle Herz in Paris in 1854, L’Enfance du Christ (the childhood of Christ) by romantic French composer Berlioz is a dramatic and thrilling experience. Bach Musica NZ’s ‘A French Christmas’ performance of this popular piece, will be the sixth and final concert of their 2011 Subscription series.

Set in candlelight at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell on Saturday 17 December, the concert promises to be a wonderful way to welcome in the Christmas season.

Berlioz was influential in the development of Romanticism. His oratorio’s three part composition is scored for choir, seven vocal soloists and a large symphony orchestra. L’Enfance du Christ tells the story of the Holy family’s journey away from Judea, into the desert and on to Bethlehem.

Bach Musica’s 40 voice choir and orchestra will be accompanied by seven highly skilled and internationally renowned vocal soloists: Anne Lamont-Lowe as Virgin Mary (mezzo), Moses Mackay as Joseph (baritone), Benjamin Makisi as Narrator (tenor), Richard Green as Herod (bass), Jared Holt as Father (bass), Anthony Schneider as Polydorus (bass) and Richard Phillips as Centurion (tenor).

The narrator, Tongan born and Wellington raised Benjamin Makisi, has had standing ovations around the world and has earned critical acclaim for his tenor voice.

Conductor and Bach Musica musical director Rita Paczian says the work is “full of beautiful romantic harmonies and many dramatic scenes. We look forward to welcoming guests to our final concert for the year and presenting an unforgettable Christmas performance that will certainly put everyone in the Christmas spirit.”

The scene featuring Shepherds’ farewell has become famous among English audiences and is sure to have a lasting impression on all those attending.

Subscribers will enjoy a complimentary glass of wine from Morton Estate wines at the conclusion of the event.

The Details:
What: Bach Musica NZ presents ‘A French Christmas’
Date: Saturday, 17 December 2011
Time: 7pm
Location: Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, Auckland
Tickets: $45 adults, $40 seniors, $10 students, children under 12 free.
Tickets available from www.iticket.co.nz or by phoning 09 361 1000.

ENDS

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