UPDATE: The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra (SPCO) is captivating audiences with its seasonal performance of Bach’s iconic “Brandenburg” Concertos, running through December 14, 2025. The concerts, held at the Ordway in St. Paul, have quickly become a must-see holiday tradition, drawing in music lovers eager for a festive experience.
Just announced, the SPCO is performing five of the six concertos, showcasing the vibrant energy and intricate beauty of Bach’s work. While not originally composed as Christmas music, the concertos resonate deeply with the festive spirit of the season, making them a cherished secular treat.
The performance series kicked off on Friday at 7 p.m., beginning with the lively “Brandenburg” Concerto No. 1, featuring a striking blend of three oboes, two horns, and a violin soloist. Eunae Koh, the talented violinist, delivered a breathtaking performance, weaving through the intricate melodies with clarity and vigor. The concerto’s joyous spirit, buoyed by the resonant horns and delicate oboes, set a festive tone for the evening.
As the concert progressed, the orchestra transitioned to the Sixth Concerto, where the absence of violins allowed the two violas to shine. The piece enveloped the audience in a warm, dusky sound, with a mellow second movement that blossomed into unexpected buoyancy as it advanced.
After intermission, the SPCO showcased the Fifth Concerto, where the harpsichord takes center stage. Jeffrey Grossman’s electrifying performance brought an exhilarating energy that felt almost cinematic, reminiscent of a video game soundtrack. The harpsichord’s cadenza left the audience in awe, highlighting the instrument’s agility and expressive range.
Next came the Third Concerto, a hallmark of many student orchestras. In the hands of the SPCO, it revealed a new depth, transforming nearly every musician into a soloist. The ensemble’s crisp articulation infused the performance with a vibrant, athletic pulse, captivating everyone in attendance.
The performance culminated with the Fourth Concerto, featuring principal violinist Kyu-Young Kim, alongside flutists Julia Bogorad-Kogan and Alicia McQuerrey. Kim’s light, agile playing, paired with the flutes’ airy brilliance, created a spirited and uplifting finale that left the audience cheering for more.
The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra’s rendition of Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos is not just a concert; it’s an immersive celebration of music that resonates with the heart of the holiday season. With performances scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday and continuing through mid-December, this is a golden opportunity to experience the magic of live classical music.
For more details and tickets, visit thespco.org. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary musical journey that promises to be a highlight of the festive season!
