Bach: Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 arr. for soli, choir & organ
Expected to ship in 1-2 weeks.
- Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
- Instrumentation (this edition): Organ, SATB Choir
- Originally for: SATB Choir, Orchestra
- Work: Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248
- Work Languages: English, German
- ISMN:
Description
The Christmas Oratorio with just organ instead of orchestral accompaniment? Can this work with such a festive and colorfully orchestrated piece? This arrangements show that it can, and surprisingly well! Carsten Klomp has carefully transcribed the orchestral writing for organ. Staying close to the original score goes hand-in-hand with a transcription brilliantly suited to the organ, with full use of the tonal and performing possibilities of the instrument.
The first three parts of the Christmas Oratorio are now available from Carus in this form. So for the first time, a complete performance of Parts I to III of the work can now be given in an arrangement for soloists, choir and organ.
Each of the organ parts is available to match the scores. These allow for optimal page-turns, as the choral parts are not printed, but the da capo sections are always written out in full.
The editions are available individually or as a set (including the three scores with the individual organ parts).
The vocal parts (for soloists and choir) are identical to the original version, so that the vocal score and choral score of that version can be used.
Publishers use a lot of words to describe what they sell, and we know it can be confusing. We've tried to be as clear as possible to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for. Below are descriptions of the terms that we use to describe the various formats that music often comes in.
Choral Score
A score for vocalists that only contains the vocal lines. The instrumental parts are not there for reference. Generally, cheaper than a vocal score and requires multiple copies for purchase.
Facsimile
Reproductions of the original hand-written scores from the composer.
Full Score
For ensemble music, this indicates that the edition contains all parts on a single system (there are not separate parts for each player). In larger ensembles, this is for the conductor.
Hardcover
Hardbound. Generally either linen-covered or half-leather.
Orchestral Parts
Similar to a wind set, this is a collection of parts. In the case of strings, the numbers listed are the number of copies included, though generally these are available individually (often with minimum quantities required).
Paperback
When publishers offer multiple bindings (e.g. hardcover) or study scores, this is the "standard" version. If you're planning to play the music, this is probably what you want.
Performance / Playing Score
A score of the music containing all parts on one system, intended for players to share. There are not separate parts for each player.
Set of Parts
For ensemble music, this indicates that there are separate individual parts for each player.
Solo Part with Piano Reduction
For solo pieces with orchestra, this is a version that contains a piano reduction of the orchestra parts. For piano pieces, two copies are typically needed for performance.
Study Score
A small (think choral size) copy of the complete score meant for studying, and not playing. They make great add-ons when learning concertos and small chamber works.
Vocal Score
A score prepared for vocalists that includes the piano/organ part or a reduction of the instrumental parts.
Wind Set
For orchestral music, this is a collection of wind and percussion parts. The specific quantities of each instrument are notated.
With Audio
In addition to the printed music, the edition contains recordings of the pieces. This may be an included CD, or access to files on the internet.
With / Without Fingering (Markings)
Some publishers prepare two copies - a pure Urtext edition that includes no fingering (or bowing) suggestions and a lightly edited version that includes a minimal number of editorial markings.




