Bach/Pärt: Eternal Beauty

The evening is structured around a dialogue between the structured counterpoint of Johann Sebastian Bach and the meditative stillness of Arvo Pärt. You will hear how Pärt’s Tintinnabuli style, exemplified in Fratres and the Missa Syllabica, creates a sense of suspension that complements the rigorous momentum of the Baroque era. The choral textures shift from the intricate, joyful layered voices of Bach’s motet Singet dem Herrn to the sparse, resonant vocal lines of Veni Creator and L’Abbé Agathon. Listen for how the Academy of Ancient Music applies its period-instrument expertise to these varied soundworlds, finding common ground in the clarity of the musical line. The inclusion of Bach’s Cantata BWV 4 provides a somber, chorale-based anchor, where the strings and voices explore a specific, repeated melody through several variations. This juxtaposition highlights a shared focus on spiritual intensity and architectural precision, despite the centuries separating the composers.

The Academy of Ancient Music is a world-renowned ensemble based in the United Kingdom, celebrated for its dedication to historical performance practice and the use of period instruments. Joining them is Tõnu Kaljuste, a conductor who is particularly noted for his deep understanding of choral traditions and his close association with the music of his fellow countryman, Arvo Pärt. Together, they bring a reputation for transparency of sound and scholarly rigour to this programme, moving seamlessly between the vigorous demands of German Baroque motets and the quiet, exacting requirements of contemporary vocal writing.

The performance takes place at Trinity College Chapel in Cambridge, a setting known for its significant acoustic resonance which suits this specific blend of choral and orchestral music. The concert has a total running time of approximately 120 minutes. This length and the variety of the programme make it a suitable choice for regular concertgoers and those interested in the crossover between ancient and modern styles. No specific dress code is required for this venue. You may wish to account for the stone interior when choosing your attire for the evening.