UPDATE: The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra is making waves this weekend with its exhilarating presentation of Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos, captivating audiences at the Ordway. The concerts, held on December 9 at 7 p.m. and December 10 at 2 p.m., feature five of the six concertos, blending festive cheer with classical mastery.
This annual tradition is not just a concert; it’s an emotional experience that resonates deeply with the holiday spirit, despite the works not being composed as Christmas music. The intimate chamber format allows individual musicians to shine, creating an engaging atmosphere that’s perfect for the season.
During Friday’s performance, the orchestra opened with the lively “Brandenburg” Concerto No. 1, showcasing a vibrant ensemble of three oboes, two horns, and a violin soloist. Eunae Koh delivered a stunning performance on the violin, her assertive lines weaving through the orchestral fabric with remarkable clarity. The concerto’s energy and warmth, driven by the resonant horns and delicate oboes, set a jubilant tone for the evening.
The second movement featured a breathtaking oboe solo, later echoed by Koh’s violin, while the third movement introduced a horn that soared to flute-like heights. The final section highlighted a lively exchange among the instruments, each voice contributing to a spirited conversation.
The concert then transitioned to the Sixth Concerto, notable for its absence of violins. Centered around two violas, this piece created a warm, dusky soundscape, particularly during the second movement where a mellow tone emerged, enveloping the audience in a soothing glow. The third movement brought a familiar melody to life, swirling in joyful motion.
After intermission, the orchestra treated the audience to the electrifying Fifth Concerto, where the harpsichord took center stage, played expertly by Jeffrey Grossman. His vigorous performance was a highlight, with an exuberant cadenza at the movement’s end that felt almost like a video game soundtrack come to life.
The concert further explored the Third Concerto, a staple among student orchestras, where the ensemble’s crisp articulation transformed the piece into a dynamic showcase of musical interplay. Every musician became a soloist in this exhilarating performance, reflecting the mathematical precision that characterizes Bach’s work.
Finally, the evening concluded with the Fourth Concerto, featuring principal violinist Kyu-Young Kim alongside flutists Julia Bogorad-Kogan and Alicia McQuerrey. Kim’s light, agile touch brought a dancer’s grace to the performance, with flutes weaving joyfully around him, creating an uplifting crescendo that left the audience in high spirits.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this remarkable celebration of Bach’s genius. The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra will perform at the Ordway through December 14, 2025. Tickets are available at thespco.org. This is more than just a concert; it’s a festive highlight that promises to resonate long after the final notes fade.
Join the conversation and share your experience! What’s your favorite Brandenburg Concerto? Let us know!
