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Johann Sebastian Bach's "Oster-Oratorium" or Easter Oratorio, BWV 249, is a sacred cantata composed for the Easter celebration. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:

1. Composition and Premiere:

   • Bach composed the Easter Oratorio in 1725 during his tenure as Thomaskantor in Leipzig, Germany.
   • The oratorio was likely performed for the first time on Easter Sunday, April 1, 1725.

2. Structure:

   • The Easter Oratorio is structured in several movements, including recitatives, arias, and choruses.
   • It consists of eleven movements and is scored for four vocal soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), a four-part choir, and a Baroque orchestra.

3. Biblical Themes:

   • The libretto of the Easter Oratorio is based on the Gospel accounts of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
   • It includes narrative elements, arias reflecting on the events, and choruses that emphasize the joy and celebration of Easter.

4. Instrumentation:

   • The orchestration includes instruments typical of the Baroque period, such as strings, oboes, trumpets, timpani, and continuo.

5. Musical Significance:

   • The Easter Oratorio showcases Bach's masterful use of counterpoint, intricate choral writing, and expressive arias.
   • The music captures the spirit of celebration and joy associated with the Easter season.

6. Unique Features:

   • Unlike Bach's other major oratorios, the Easter Oratorio does not follow a traditional Passion narrative but focuses specifically on the events surrounding the Resurrection.

7. Chorale Settings:

   • Bach incorporates chorale settings in some movements, connecting the oratorio to the Lutheran tradition.

8. Recording Recommendation:

   • There are numerous recordings of Bach's Easter Oratorio by various ensembles and conductors. One notable recommendation is the recording by Nikolaus Harnoncourt with the Concentus Musicus Wien.

The Easter Oratorio stands as a testament to Bach's skill in composing sacred music, and it remains a cherished work in the classical choral repertoire.