Examining Bach’s sacred vocal works

Lenten series to feature lectures, live performances

There has been no other composer, no other human, like Johann Sebastian Bach.

There are composers like him — Handel, Mozart, Beethoven. These composers were great craftsmen of music. They were prolific geniuses whose output is great, but they don’t offer the opportunities found in Bach for a deeper knowledge of who God is and for examination of one’s relationship with the Divine. Bach’s music, both sacred and secular, is thoroughly theological. It is God-centered.

This spring, Nashotah House will explore the history and context of J.S. Bach’s sacred vocal works during a five-week lecture series, held Tuesday evenings throughout Lent. In addition to both a musical and liturgical study of the music itself, attendees will participate in discussion of the setting of music to text through the lens of 18th-century Germany and its relevance today. Some introduction to the German language and its syntax will also be explored. No previous musical experience is necessary or required.

Each lecture will feature performances of the music of Bach, both in recording and live performance. The sessions will conclude with a brief “sermon” given by five current students who have studied these works in courses offered at the seminary.

The lecture series will be held on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in Adams Hall. The lectures are free to attend and open to the community. Donations are appreciated and will support the Bishop Parsons Scholarship Fund. †

For more information, visit nashotah.edu/events.

-Dr. Geoffrey Williams, Assistant Professor of Church Music at Nashotah House and Director of St. Mary’s Chapel.