The Bach project that began in 2010 with the Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks under Peter Dijkstra will conclude with the complete recording of the Mass in B minor that was made in the Herkulessaal of the Munich Residenz in April 2016. It now comprises the four crowning works of Bach in outstanding artistic quality, with renowned vocal soloists accompanied by highly distinguished historical performance practice ensembles: three of the works were performed in collaboration with Concerto Koln, and one with the Akademie fur Alte Musik Berlin. The main emphasis in these works is on Baroque musical splendor, yet reflective moments and intense, heartfelt chorales are equally important elements of the solemn oratorios. For many people, Christmas without Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio,” or Holy Week without one of his great Passions would be quite unthinkable. What makes these live recordings so special is the fresh voices of the young soloists, the regularly praised clarity and dimensionality of the Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks under the direction of Peter Dijkstra, and the two renowned period instrument ensembles.
