aUnfamiliar with the Bach Society of Houston and its important place in Houston’s cultural landscape, my husband and I were thrilled to be introduced to Johann Sebastian Bach’s Christmas Oratorio at the Society’s 40th anniversary concert. I was delighted. This concert, held at Rice University’s Brockman Hall for Opera, whet our appetite for the work of the German composer.
We were the guests of board member Bill Cordell for that wonderful afternoon concert. He took a special interest in Bach’s music and did more than just attend concerts. A concert of his harpsichord, presented to the Society a few years ago, will be featured in two of his future presentations by the Society.
Under the direction of Bach Society Houston Director Rick Erickson and with the help of music insider Ben Carswell, the Society will perform the complete Brandenburg Concertos in two concerts at the Houston Museum of Art this spring. The first time he is set for Friday March 10th at 7pm and the second time he is set for Friday April 14th at 7pm.
Caudell’s concert harpsichord takes center stage. The two-handed German-style instrument was designed in the style of his 18th-century craftsman Michael Mietke, who made a similar harpsichord for Bach in 1719, by the Dutch architect Jan He Karsbeek. Handcrafted. .)
Known for its vibrant, history-based performances, the Bach Society of Houston was founded in 1982 at Christ the King Lutheran Church in the context of a Sunday night banquet inspired by the example of Manhattan’s Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. Performed Bach’s cantatas.
Eventually, as a fully independent non-profit organization, the Society transitioned to a professional choir and added a chamber music series. Today, the Society hosts Bach’s Vespers, chamber music, his organ recitals, and special concerts.
Next on the calendar is the 300th anniversary banquet celebrating Bach’s auditions at Leipzig’s St. Thomas Church and the presentation of the cantatas performed at the auditions. The concert will be held at Christ the King’s Lutheran Church at 2353 Rice Boulevard, home of the Society.
