Glimpses of Genius: Bach's Compositional Workshop

Much like the plays of William Shakespeare, the music of Bach represents a summit of human achievement. Throughout his life the organ was the instrument that proved an indispensable musical companion. From his earliest years to his deathbed, there was hardly a time in Bach's life when he was not obliged to play the organ and compose for it. Because of this, the organ works form a centerpiece of his creative evolution and existence. Bach's organ works continue to surprise and astonish three hundred years later. They are the organist's supreme challenge. They are the listener's supreme delight. They are the perfect marriage of humble purpose and high genius. In this series, each performance highlights musical and personal themes throughout Bach's life. This thematic arrangement takes listeners on an intimate journey through these pieces.

PROGRAM:

Prelude and Fugue in C major (“9/8”), BWV 547

Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 730 (Dearest Jesus, we are here)
Herzlich tut mich verlangen, BWV 727 (My heart is filled with longing)
Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier, BWV 731

Trio Sonata in C major, BWV 529
     Allegro
     Largo
     Allegro

Allein Gott in der höh sei ehr, BWV 662 (Alone to God on high be honor)
Allein Gott in der höh sei ehr, BWV 663
Trio super Allein Gott in der höh sei ehr, BWV 664

Fugue in G minor, BWV 578

Ich ruf’ zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639 (Lord Jesus Christ, turn thou to us)
Komm, Gott Schöpfer, heiliger Geist, BWV 631 (Come, God the Creator, Holy Ghost)

Concerto in A minor (after Vivaldi, Op. III, No. 8), BWV 593 
     (Without tempo marking - Allegro)
     Largo
     Allegro