AVROTROS Kerstconcert: L’enfance du Christ

In L’enfance du Christ, Berlioz reveals his intimate, lyrical side. This Christmas Oratorio is among the most cherished works of the great French Romantic. The Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and a star-studded cast complete the composition in an impassioned reflection on Jesus’ youth.

Poignant Simplicity

Berlioz was not religious, but the rituals of the Catholic Church did spark his musical imagination. He left behind a whole series of sacred works, including L’enfance du Christ: an exceptionally sensitive work about the formative years of Jesus Christ. Berlioz spent four years working on his oratorio, which is poignantly simple and beautiful.

A Brilliant Performance

Berlioz’s Christmas Oratorio is now receiving a brilliant performance in the hands of the Radio Philharmonic and the Netherlands Radio Choir. Beautiful roles are reserved for baritone Thomas Oliemans (father) and the promising mezzo-soprano Maria Warenberg (Virgin Mary), artist in residence of AVROTROS. The Briton Edward Gardner, who previously performed Berlioz with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, is currently considered one of the most prominent Berlioz conductors.