Dutch Bach Consort: Bach! But diverently

Where were you when you first heard Bach? Johann Sebastian Bach's music is universally recognized, whether we're conscious of it or not. Beyond his passions and Goldberg Variations, he's inspired contemporary composers and singer-songwriters across genres, from Procol Harum and 2 Unlimited to Paul Simon, The Beatles, and Lady Gaga. Bach's work is often seen as sacrosanct and untouchable, but not to the Dutch Bach Consort, who dares to engage with Bach's legacy in fresh and innovative ways.

Dutch Bach Consort: Bach! But diverently

Location

De Waalse Kerk

Walenpleintje 159

1012 JZ Amsterdam

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Contact

0206232074

info@dewaalsekerk.nl

Bach! But diverently

In the program Bach! But diverently, the famous Chaconne for violin is the beating heart. Professor Helga Thoene discovered this instrumental music has a deeper language, including hidden choral quotes. Based on this musicological research, lutenist David van Ooijen made a new violin and four-part ensemble arrangement. The chorales found in the Chaconne will also be performed in their entirety with improvisations by violinist Sarah Kapustin. The famous arias Aus Liebe and Erbarme dich from the St. Matthew Passion are two other sacred cows. These will be heard for the first time as a four-part vocal 'orchestra' in an arrangement by composer Rik Elings. As a musical icing on the cake, there are sung versions of the Largo from Violin Sonata No. 4, in which one can recognize the melody of the Erbarme dich, and Goldberg Variation No. 4. And who knows... also a pop song. In addition to this special music, the musicians talk about their first encounter with Bach.

The Dutch Bach Consort consists of top musicians who love Bach and do not hesitate to experiment. A daring approach on the shoulders of the old foundation Bach. In their short existence (2021), they have already sung many innovative programs throughout the Netherlands. For example, the series of commemorative concerts Zwanenzang in collaboration with spoken-word artist Amara van der Elst and Allerzielen | A danced suite of sadness, in which they collaborated with the Senegalese dancer Alioune Diagne. In 2024, they presented the program DuisterMas, including Lotte Pen's world premiere of the mass of the same name, composed especially for NBC, for eight singers, organ, saxophone and electronics.