Sunday, December 18, 2016
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.
Parking is available on a first-come basis for $5 in the Bryan Center Parking Garage; Duke parking permit holders may park for free. Vehicles with an ADA pass may park in front of the Chapel.
Toccata, Adagio and Fugue in C major, BWV 564
Nun komm’ der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659 (Savior of the Nations come)
Trio super Nun komm’ der Heiden Heiland, BWV 660
Nun komm’ der Heiden Heiland, BWV 661
Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, BWV 645 (Sleepers wake, a voice is crying
Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ, BWV 697 (Praise be to thee, Lord Jesus Christ)
Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ, BWV 722
Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ, BWV 604
In dulci jubilo, BWV 608 (Good Christian men rejoice)
In dulci jubilo, BWV 729
Pastorella in F major, BWV 590
Vom Himmel kam der Engel Schar, BWV 607 (From heaven came the host of angels)
Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her, BWV 606 (From heaven above to earth I come)
Puer natus in Bethlehem, BWV 603 (A boy is born in Bethlehem)
Der Tag, der ist so freudenreich, BWV 605 (The day, so rich in gladness)
Canonic Variations: Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her, BWV 769
(From heaven above to earth I come)