Bach Christmas Oratorio Parts 1-3

at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre
London Available from Sat 5 Dec to Sat 5 Dec

Book Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 tickets for a spectacular festive concert in London

Celebrate the festive season with one of the greatest choral masterpieces ever composed as Johann Sebastian Bach's Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 comes to Queen Elizabeth Hall at the Southbank Centre.

  • Experience the opening three parts of Bach's beloved Christmas Oratorio performed live
  • Enjoy soaring choruses, beautiful solo performances and magnificent orchestral music
  • Follow the Nativity story through one of classical music's most cherished festive works
  • Immerse yourself in the joy, wonder and celebration of the Christmas season
  • Experience a magical seasonal concert at one of London's leading cultural venues
  • Combining joyful celebration, spiritual beauty and extraordinary musical craftsmanship, Bach's
  • Christmas Oratorio remains one of the most treasured works in the classical repertoire and a highlight of the festive calendar.

See Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 at Queen Elizabeth Hall

  • Date: 5th December 2026 7:00pm
  • Duration: 1hr 50 mins (approx.)
  • Age: For ages 7+. Under-12s must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Venue: Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
  • Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach
  • Genre: Classical Concert / Choral Performance
  • Setting: Live performance in the intimate surroundings of Queen Elizabeth Hall

First performed in 1734, Bach's Christmas Oratorio is made up of six cantatas celebrating the Christmas story. This special performance presents Parts 1–3, taking audiences through the birth of Christ and the arrival of the shepherds, with music that perfectly captures the wonder and joy of the season.

From triumphant choruses to deeply moving solo passages, every section of the work demonstrates Bach's extraordinary ability to combine powerful storytelling with breath-taking musical invention. The result is a festive masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences nearly 300 years after it was first performed.

Presented in the beautiful surroundings of Queen Elizabeth Hall, audiences can enjoy this timeless music in a venue renowned for its exceptional acoustics and intimate concert atmosphere. The hall's celebrated setting allows every detail of Bach's writing to shine, creating a memorable experience for both devoted classical music lovers and first-time concertgoers.

Whether you're continuing a cherished Christmas tradition or discovering the Christmas Oratorio for the first time, this performance offers a wonderful opportunity to experience one of the greatest seasonal works ever composed.

Book your Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 tickets today and celebrate the festive season with an unforgettable evening of live music at Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Location

Southbank Centre

Belvedere Road,
London,
Greater London,
SE1 8XX
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How to find us

Southbank Centre is located at Belvedere Road, London, Greater London, SE1 8XX.

  • By car: Use postcode SE1 8XX in your sat nav. Due to the central London location, public transport is recommended where possible.
  • By train: London Waterloo Station is approximately a 5-minute walk from Southbank Centre and offers excellent rail connections across London and the South East.
  • By Underground: Waterloo, Embankment, Westminster and Blackfriars stations are all within walking distance of the venue.
  • By bus: Numerous London bus routes stop near Waterloo, Westminster Bridge and the South Bank, providing easy access from across the capital.
  • By foot: Southbank Centre is located on London's famous South Bank, within walking distance of the London Eye, National Theatre, Tate Modern, Somerset House and Covent Garden.
Facilities
  • Multiple performance venues
  • Restaurants and cafés
  • Bars and refreshment outlets
  • Accessible toilets
  • Lift access
  • Step-free access
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Hearing assistance systems
  • Family facilities
  • Gift shops
  • Cloakroom facilities
  • Riverside public spaces
More Info
What is Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3?

Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 is a live performance of the opening sections of Johann Sebastian Bach's beloved Christmas Oratorio, one of the most celebrated choral works ever composed.

Who composed Christmas Oratorio?

The work was composed by Johann Sebastian Bach and was first performed during the Christmas season of 1734.

What is the Christmas Oratorio about?

The Christmas Oratorio tells the story of the Nativity through a combination of choruses, solo arias, recitatives and orchestral music. Parts 1–3 focus on the birth of Christ and the shepherds' journey to Bethlehem.

Where is Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 being performed?

The concert is taking place at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX.

Does Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3 offer carer tickets? If so, how do I book a carer ticket?

If you require companion/carer tickets, please book directly with Southbank Centre.

Is Christmas Oratorio suitable for people new to classical music?

Yes. Bach's Christmas Oratorio is widely regarded as one of the most uplifting and accessible works in the choral repertoire, making it an excellent introduction to classical music and live concert performance.

Why is Bach's Christmas Oratorio so popular?

The work combines magnificent choruses, beautiful melodies and powerful storytelling, making it one of the most enduring and beloved Christmas compositions ever written.

What is Queen Elizabeth Hall?

Queen Elizabeth Hall is one of the Southbank Centre's premier performance venues, renowned for its excellent acoustics and diverse programme of classical music, contemporary performance and cultural events.

Are these the cheapest tickets for Christmas Oratorio: Parts 1–3?

Yes, we guarantee price match or better. If you can find them cheaper, we want to match it so please get in touch here.

Can I go see Parts 4-6 too?

Yes, parts 4 – 6 can be heard the following evening, on Sunday 6 December. Book for both concerts to experience a complete performance of the Christmas Oratorio, or enjoy either as a standalone event.

What age is this suitable for?

For ages 7+. Under-12s must be accompanied by an adult.

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