UPDATE: The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra (SPCO) is captivating audiences this weekend with its stunning presentation of Bach’s renowned “Brandenburg” Concertos. The concerts are set for 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Ordway in St. Paul, Minnesota, running through December 14, 2025.
This annual tradition, while not specifically holiday-themed, offers a festive musical experience that resonates deeply during the season. The concertos, celebrated for their intimate chamber form, showcase a unique blend of instruments and highlight individual musicians, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
The performance kicks off with the lively “Brandenburg” Concerto No. 1, featuring an impressive ensemble of three oboes, two horns, and a violin soloist. The spirited energy and warm sound of the horns, combined with the delicate oboe timbres, set a joyful tone. Notably, violinist Eunae Koh impressively weaves her lines through the texture, delivering a captivating and assertive performance.
The second movement of the First Concerto introduces a breathtaking oboe solo, followed by the violin taking up the melody. The third movement surprises with a horn that ascends melodically, evoking the softness of a flute. The fourth movement showcases vibrant exchanges among the ensemble, each instrument contributing to the exuberant dialogue.
Next, the orchestra transitions to the Sixth Concerto, a unique piece that omits violins entirely, featuring two violas at its core. The work settles into a warm, dusky sound, especially during the second movement, where a mellow tone unfolds with a gentle glow. The third movement brightens as a familiar melody emerges, swirling with unexpected buoyancy.
After intermission, the excitement continues with the Fifth Concerto, where Jeffrey Grossman takes center stage on the harpsichord. His performance is exhilarating, navigating Bach’s intricate passages with vigor. The harpsichord’s cadenza at the end of the first movement bursts with energy, reminiscent of a video game soundtrack, captivating the audience.
The program also includes the Third Concerto, a favorite among student orchestras known for its opening bars. In the hands of the SPCO, the piece’s structure becomes sharply defined, transforming nearly every musician into a soloist. The ensemble’s crisp articulation and athletic pulse reflect the underlying mathematical precision of Bach’s work.
The evening culminates with the Fourth Concerto, where principal violinist Kyu-Young Kim dazzles alongside flutists Julia Bogorad-Kogan and Alicia McQuerrey. Kim’s light, quicksilver touch and the airy brilliance of the flutes create an uplifting finale, characterized by nimble and joyous interplay.
As the SPCO continues its performances at the Ordway, attendees are experiencing a cherished holiday tradition that brilliantly showcases the intricate beauty of Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic live!
For more details and ticket information, visit thespco.org. Share this exciting event with fellow music lovers and celebrate the season with the timeless elegance of Bach!
