Bach and his roots

This program explores the vocal and instrumental music of J.S. Bach alongside that of his predecessors, including Erlebach, Oswald, Schein and Buxtehude. Joined by acclaimed British soprano Hannah Ely, we delve into the rich musical landscape of the 17th century offering a deeper understanding of the influences that helped shape Bach’s distinctive style.

By tracing the artistic pathways that inspired him, we uncover how much Bach inherited from the innovations of his predecessors — and how he transformed those ideas into something uniquely his own. This performance invites listeners to experience the foundational music that contributed to the rise of one of the most significant composers in history.

PHILIPP HEINRICH ERLEBACH (1657-1714)

Sonata Quarta in C Major: I. Sonata (Grave-Vivace-Adagio)

Meine Seufzer, meine Klage from Harmonische Freude musikalischer Freunde, Vol.1

ANDREAS OSWALD (1634 – 1665)

Sonata a Violino Solo No.6 from Partiturbuch Ludwig, 1662

JOHANN HERMANN SCHEIN (1586 -1630)

Filli zart eins etwas durstig warst and Ach weh, bin ich Amor from Musica boscareccia

DIETRICH BUXTEHUDE (1637- 1707)

Cantata Singet dem Herrn Bux WV98 for soprano, violin and continuo

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685-1750)

Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV 147: Aria Bereite dir, Jesu, noch itzo die Bahn for soprano, violin and continuo

Sonata for viola da gamba and harpsichord Nº 3 in g minor, BWV 1029: II. Adagio

Bete aber auch dabei mitten in dem Wachen for soprano, violoncello piccolo, traverso (violin) and continuo from the cantata Mache dich, mein Geist, bereit, BWV 115

Sonata for violin and harpsichord BWV 1015 in A Major (transcription for violin, violoncello piccolo and cello): I. — II. Allegro III. Andante un poco IV. Presto

Mein gläubiges Herze from the cantata Also hat Gott die Welt geliebt, BWV 68