Bach in Baltimore returns with triumphant works by Bach and Handel performed by the Bach in Baltimore Choir and Orchestra. Handel’s The Music for Royal Fireworks was composed to celebrate the signing of the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle between Britain and France, ending a conflict over the Austrian throne, Handel named the third movement “La Paix” (“The Peace”) and the “La Réjouissance” (“The Rejoicing”) to commemorate the mood of elation that followed the conclusion of the conflict. King George II, who had a keen interest in music, told Handel that he “hoped there would be no fiddles”, much to the composer’s alarm. Handel was able to satisfy the king’s tastes by writing for a military band of 18 brass instruments, 37 woodwinds, and three timpani. It premiered with fireworks in London’s Green Park for an audience of over 12,000 in 1749. “Fireworks” are also on display with Bach’s Cantata 63: Christen, ätzet diesen Tag (Christians, engrave this day), a festive work that opens with trumpets heralding the mercy of the coming Jesus. With a rapid-fire exchange between the chorus and orchestra, the music builds majestic anticipation.