BREAKING: The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra (SPCO) is captivating audiences with its vibrant performance of Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos at the Ordway in St. Paul. The concerts, held at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, showcase five of the six concertos, perfectly aligning with the festive spirit of the season.
This year’s presentation highlights the unique intimacy of chamber music, featuring a mix of instruments that allows individual musicians to shine. The performance kicked off with the joyful “Brandenburg” Concerto No. 1, showcasing the talents of violinist Eunae Koh alongside three oboes and two horns. The lively energy and warm sounds delighted the audience, with Koh’s assertive playing weaving through the intricate textures of the piece.
The concert’s second half featured the Fifth Concerto, where the harpsichord, masterfully played by Jeffrey Grossman, took center stage. His dynamic performance brought a sense of urgency and excitement, reminiscent of the high-energy soundtracks of modern video games.
As the orchestra moved through the concertos, each piece revealed its own charm. The Sixth Concerto, devoid of violins, introduced two violas that created a rich, warm atmosphere, while the Third Concerto transformed every musician into a soloist, highlighting the ensemble’s crisp articulation and athletic edge.
The performance culminated with the Fourth Concerto, featuring principal violinist Kyu-Young Kim. His graceful playing, paired with the airy flutes of Julia Bogorad-Kogan and Alicia McQuerrey, delivered a joyful and uplifting conclusion to the concert.
Bach’s “Brandenburg” Concertos are celebrated for their intricate beauty and mathematical precision, making them a thrilling holiday tradition. Concertgoers are encouraged to experience this captivating performance before it ends on December 14, 2025.
For tickets and more information, visit thespco.org. Don’t miss this chance to witness the magic of Bach’s masterpieces performed by one of the region’s most esteemed orchestras.
