Introduction

The music of J.S. Bach is considered by many to contain some of the deepest and most profound emotional expression in all the literature of music. The Cantatas represent perhaps the single greatest collection of religious music ever composed and demonstrate a range of style and invention which has never been matched or even approached. Yet, with relatively few exceptions, the cantatas and many other works by Bach remain largely unknown to most of the classical music public as well as serious classical music students. To counter this trend, the Bach Cantata Institute seeks to engage a new generation of students. 

Program

The Bach Cantata Institute at SongFest was begun in 2003 by the late Craig Smith and John Harbison and continues to be an important integral part of SongFest.

Participation in this program will be limited to those who have a sincere desire to explore this music.

The Institute will take place during SongFest, centered around private coachings, master classes, and rehearsals, all culminating in a final public performance with a small Baroque ensemble, conducted by John Harbison.

Partial repertoire will include the full Bach cantatas BWV 106 Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit and BWV 161 Komm, du süße Todesstunde. Arias/duets with one obligato instrument from the Cantatas will be coached and performed.