Join us for a rare and exciting programme of sacred cantatas by J.S. Bach, performed on period instruments by Australia’s leading early music specialists.
At its heart is the Australian premiere of O Jesu Christ, meins Lebens Licht (BWV 118) in its original, striking instrumentation for trumpets, cornetto, sackbuts, and choir — likely to be performed at a graveside funeral in Leipzig. This luminous, stringless work evokes an older sound world of solemn dignity and consolation. Also featured is Der Herr denket an uns (BWV 196), a graceful and festive wedding cantata probably written for the clergyman who later officiated at Bach’s own marriage. Es ist nichts Gesundes an meinem Leibe (BWV 25) opens with a vivid portrayal of sickness and spiritual anguish, drawing on Psalm 38 and rich instrumentation — including cornetto, sackbuts, recorders, and strings — to explore themes of suffering and redemption.
Presented in the beautiful St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Newtown, this concert offers a rare chance to hear these masterpieces live.
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