UPDATE: The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra is captivating audiences with its seasonal presentation of five of Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos, starting last night and continuing through December 14, 2025. This urgent performance merges classical brilliance with festive spirit, making it an unmissable event for music lovers.
Concertgoers at the Ordway are treated to an electrifying interpretation that highlights the intimacy and magnetism of the chamber form. The concert opened with the exuberant Brandenburg Concerto No. 1, featuring a unique blend of instruments including three oboes, two horns, and a standout violin solo by Eunae Koh. Her performance was assertive and dynamic, weaving through the lively textures of the piece that radiates joy.
In the first movement, the horns deliver a warm and resonant sound while the oboes add a delicate nuance, setting the stage for a festive atmosphere. The breathtaking oboe solo in the second movement and the playful exchanges in the third exemplify the concerto’s spirited dialogue among instruments.
Following the first concerto, the orchestra transitioned to the Sixth Concerto, which strikingly omits violins, showcasing two violas. The warm, dusky sound envelops the audience, with the second movement revealing a mellow tone that unfolds serenely. The final movement surprises with a buoyant melody that shifts the piece’s darker palette into an uplifting experience.
After intermission, the spotlight turned to the Fifth Concerto, where the harpsichord, played by Jeffrey Grossman, commanded the stage with relentless energy. His performance of Bach’s intricate passages was vigorous and exuberant, evoking the frenetic excitement akin to a video game soundtrack. The audience was left in awe, captivated by the harpsichord’s extended cadenza that concluded the first movement.
Next, the orchestra performed the Third Concerto, a favorite among student orchestras. Under the SPCO’s skilled hands, this piece became a showcase for nearly every musician, turning the ensemble into a vibrant tapestry of sound. Each musician brought a crisp articulation that infused the music with an athletic edge, reflecting the underlying mathematical precision of Bach’s compositions.
The performance concluded with the Fourth Concerto, featuring principal violinist Kyu-Young Kim alongside flutists Julia Bogorad-Kogan and Alicia McQuerrey. Kim’s light, agile touch danced through rapid passages, while the flutes intertwined gracefully, creating an airy brilliance that heightened the concerto’s joy. The nimble interplay of instruments provided a glorious finale, leaving the audience uplifted and inspired.
This performance not only celebrates Bach’s genius but also solidifies the SPCO’s tradition as a beloved holiday event. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exhilarating concert series at the Ordway in St. Paul.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Where: The Ordway, 345 Washington St., St. Paul
Tickets: Available at thespco.org
Join fellow music enthusiasts and witness this celebration of Bach that promises to engage the heart and mind. The orchestra’s dedication to showcasing the beauty of chamber music in this festive setting is a must-see this season.
