The Bach Choir of Bethlehem Presents: Thomanerchor

Name: The Bach Choir of Bethlehem Presents: Thomanerchor
Start: 2025-03-08T16:00:00-05:00
Location: Central Moravian Church

Schedule

Sat, 08 Mar, 2025 at 04:00 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

Central Moravian Church | Bethlehem, PA

Step into history and witness the extraordinary artistry of the Thomanerchor, one of the world’s oldest and most renowned boys’ choirs, as they join The Bach Choir of Bethlehem for our Gala Concert. Steeped in the traditions of Bach’s home church, these young musicians eat, sleep, and breathe music, carrying forward a legacy that spans over 800 years.
Prepare to be captivated by a breathtaking a cappella performance that showcases the Thomanerchor’s unparalleled skill and versatility. Their repertoire for the evening is a choral high-wire act, featuring some of the most demanding works from the Baroque, Romantic, and contemporary eras. Highlights include the hauntingly beautiful Kyrie from Frank Martin’s Mass, a 20th-century masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of choral artistry.
The Thomanerchor’s history is deeply intertwined with that of Johann Sebastian Bach, who served as their cantor from 1723 to 1750. During his tenure, Bach composed many of his most famous sacred works for the choir, including the St. Matthew Passion and the Christmas Oratorio. Today, the Thomanerchor continues to honor this legacy, performing Bach’s music with the same precision and passion that he demanded of his singers.
Founded in 1212, the Thomanerchor is one of the oldest cultural institutions in the world. Based in Leipzig, Germany, the choir has maintained its reputation for excellence for over eight centuries. The boys, aged 9 to 18, live and study together at the Thomasschule, where they receive a rigorous musical education alongside their academic studies. This unique environment fosters a deep connection to the music they perform, resulting in performances that are both technically stunning and emotionally resonant.
The Thomanerchor’s visit to Bethlehem is a rare opportunity to experience a choir that has shaped the course of Western music. Whether you’re a lifelong classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, this concert promises to be an unforgettable evening of artistry and inspiration.