As they grazed their flock, the shepherds bore the angel's salutation through the lowly portal, onward to the Mother and her Child. Hosts of Heaven led the hymn, through the starry spheres resounding, Heaven led the song proclaiming, "Peace, O Peace upon the Earth!"

Since that time of angels, warning O how many deeds so bloody has that armored horseman, Conflict, on his wild horse brought forth! On how many a holy night sang the choir of spirits quaking, pressingly yet softly pleading, "Peace, O Peace upon the Earth!"

Yet survives belief eternal that the weak shall not forever fall as helpless victim to each murd'rers, fresh indignity. Righteousness, or something kin, weaves and works in rout and horror, and a kingdom yet shall rise up seeking Peace upon the Earth.

Slowly shall its form develop, holy duties while fulfilling, weapons free of danger forging, flaming swords for cause of Right. And a royal line shall bloom mighty royal sons shall flourish, whose bright trumpets peal proclaiming, Peace, O Peace upon the Earth!

The content of this touching and truly significant poem from Conrad Ferdinand Meyer (1825-1898) forms the central theme throughout the majority of our programs this season. Nearly all sacred works, from Bach to modern works, more or less directly deal with the plea for inner and outer peace. This year, for the first time, the Munich Bach Choir has included the inspired late-romantic tone poem from the passionate Bach admirer, Arnold Schönberg, in its concert program. The theme of "Peace on Earth" also appears in Bach's Christmas Oratorio. We will stay true to our core reperetoire, but want to invite you once again, dear guest, on a journey of discovery in the world of admirers and imitators of Bach - the great musical director of the Thomaskirche in Leipzig.

You are cordially invited!

Sincerely,
Hansjörg Albrecht