The Headquarters in the key of Bach

Once again, an incomparable setting welcomed the equally incomparable Bach. The Cathedral was transformed into a Bach-infused spectacle. To the popular and widespread messianic tradition of George Frideric Handel, we must add this small but significant glimpse of the immense and marble-like master. Christmas Oratorio BWV 248 The Capilla de la Seu, directed by Joan Company, and the Illes Balears Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pablo Mielgo, have been performing for several years in the cathedral's presbytery, beneath Gaudí's baldachin and alongside Jujol's transgressive and incendiary paintings. And if the setting can only be described as sublime, the concert shone equally brightly, with soprano Irene Mas, countertenor-soprano Rafael Quirant, tenor Bryan López, and baritone Tomeu Bibiloni as vocal soloists. As for the orchestra's soloists, Emma Goillot, on the piccolo trumpet—a small, four-valve instrument tuned to D—consolably captivated the audience. Bach trumpet— in his speech, performing with Tomeu Bibiloni an excellent Gosser Herr, or Starker König.

The eighth aria of the cantata of Christmas Day It had that added value—the surprise effect—but right from the opening, the composition, Jauchet, Frohlocket, auf Preiset die Tage For choir and orchestra, the sumptuous level of the event was perfectly defined. A splendid opening and a clear, immaculate interpretation—a fitting adjective to describe the entire performance of this carefully curated selection of Bach's most intricate and precise oratorio, as monumental as it is delicate. A piece that offers virtually every member, beyond the soloists, the opportunity to showcase their talents, with a powerful yet warm Bibilonio; an Irene Mas who seems to specialize in everything she sings, but especially in Baroque music; a countertenor/soprano with astonishing high notes and excellent projection; and the tenor, who has a...Ich will nur say zu Ehren Leben The most complicated aria, which he executed with great skill. Likewise, it's worth highlighting, for example, the oboe and the two oboes d'amore, the bassoon, the first two violins, and the relentless continuo… However, I would say that the true star of it all was the heart, superb, supported by an orchestra that showcased its excellence, both in the soloists and as a whole. An unforgettable evening.