Gewandhausorchester, Thomanerchor Leipzig, Andreas Reize Dirigent
In 1734, Bach compiled six cantatas, some based on existing compositions, for the Christmas season, creating the Christmas Oratorio, performed in Leipzig's main churches. This overshadowed his other Christmas cantatas. After its premiere 300 years ago, Bach continued to perform a related cantata, reminiscent of Part 4 of the Christmas Oratorio. His 1724 Sanctus, later integrated into the Mass in B minor, and the chorale cantata "Liebster Immanuel," intended for Epiphany, also belong to his second Leipzig cantata year.