BREAKING: The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra (SPCO) is captivating audiences with its vibrant performances of Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos, running at The Ordway through December 14, 2025. This annual tradition showcases five of the six concertos, resonating with the festive spirit of the holiday season.
The first performance started with the lively “Brandenburg” Concerto No. 1, featuring a unique ensemble of three oboes, two horns, and a striking violin solo by Eunae Koh. Her performance delivered an assertive and clear presence, weaving through the intricate melodies. The energy of the piece, filled with dance-like rhythms, provided a perfect backdrop to the holiday atmosphere.
Following the first concerto, the orchestra shifted to the Sixth Concerto, which intriguingly excludes violins. Instead, the focus rests on two violas, creating a warm and mellow sound. The second movement unfolded with tantalizing beauty, while the third movement brought a lively melody that danced through the ensemble, energizing the audience.
After intermission, the Fifth Concerto took center stage, with Jeffrey Grossman on harpsichord commanding attention. His vigorous and dynamic playing style evoked the thrilling energy of a video game soundtrack, especially during the harpsichord’s exuberant cadenza.
The afternoon continued with the Third Concerto, a staple for student orchestras yet delivered in a way that highlighted its structural brilliance. The ensemble’s crisp articulation and tight interplay transformed each musician into an effective soloist, showcasing the mathematical precision and buoyancy of Bach’s music.
Finally, the performance reached an exhilarating conclusion with the Fourth Concerto. Principal violinist Kyu-Young Kim, alongside flutists Julia Bogorad-Kogan and Alicia McQuerrey, dazzled the audience. Kim’s light touch and quicksilver notes, paired with the flutes’ airy brilliance, created a joyful and uplifting finale that left the audience cheering.
The SPCO continues to celebrate this beloved secular holiday tradition, inviting music lovers to experience the magic of chamber music at The Ordway. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. For tickets and more information, visit thespco.org.
This captivating series of concerts is not just a musical experience; it’s a festive celebration that brings the community together, enriching the holiday season with the timeless works of Bach. Don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary event!
