Bach, J. S. - Sinfonia (Christmas Oratorio BWV 248) for double flute quartet/ensemble- Digital Download

This radiant Sinfonia opens Part 2 of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio (1734) — the only cantata in the cycle without an opening chorus. Instead, Bach lets the orchestra speak, capturing the moment heaven and earth briefly become one. It’s the sole instrumental movement in the entire Oratorio, and a rare example of Bach’s use of purely orchestral writing in his sacred works.
Scored for strings, continuo, two flutes, and a remarkable quartet of oboes (two oboes d’amore and two oboes da caccia), the music is built on contrasts: strings, long associated with angels, play the gentle rocking rhythm of the siciliano, while the reed instruments — evoking shepherds — sustain bourdon-like tones in a rustic pastorale. The result is a soft yet richly textured soundscape, full of warmth and wonder.
In this arrangement, we’ve added two alto flutes to deepen the resonance of the ‘reed’ group. Both alto parts may be played on C flutes if preferred, and all options are included. For added spatial magic, we suggest separating the ‘orchestra’ (three top flutes and bass flute) from the ‘oboe’ quartet (two flutes and two alto flutes) in performance.

Grading: 6 - 8

Duration: 5'06

Composer: Bach, J. S.

Arranger: Walker, E./Orriss, M

Instrumentation: Double Flute Quartet: 5 C Flutes, 2 Alto Flutes (or 2 Flutes), Bass Flute

Listen to a sample 

Your purchase of this DIGITAL file allows ONE download and ONE PRINT ONLY per purchase.

You are only authorized to print the number of copies that you have purchased. You may not digitally distribute the PDF file in any form. You may not print more copies than purchased for use (i.e. you may not print individual copies for friends, students or others, and you may not digitally distribute to anyone). You may not make alterations to the PDF file.

Unauthorized use is an infringement of copyright and may subject the user to penalties.