The Pennsylvania-based Bethlehem Bach Festival has announced its 115^th anniversary festival, which will also celebrate the 125^th anniversary of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem.

“The Bethlehem Bach Festival is not just a musical event, it is a tradition that has touched the lives of so many people over the last century,” said Artistic Director Dr. Christopher Jackson. “As the newest Artistic Director and Conductor of The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, I have been inspired by the personal accounts of how this festival has changed lives, renewed faith, and brought people together. It is my honor to continue this tradition and invite music lovers to immerse themselves in the beauty of this music and community. Join us for four major concerts, world-class soloists, chamber music, lectures, communal chorale sings, and the incomparable Mass in B Minor. Experience the joy and reflection that this festival brings, whether it is your first or fiftieth time.”

The two “Bach at 4” concerts will feature music by J.S. Bach and Johann Michael Bach with such soloists as Sherezade Panthaki, Meg Bragle, Benjamin Butterfield, and William Sharp.

Performance Date: May 12 & 19, 2023

For the first “Bach at 8,” audiences will hear such works as “Aus der Tiefe rufe ich, Herr, zu dir” and “Ich hatte viel Bekümmernis” by J.S. Bach as well as a cello concerto by C.P.E. Bach.

Performance Date: May 12 & 19, 2023

The Bel Canto Youth Chorus will take on “Wir eilen mit schwachen, doch emsigen Schritten” from Cantata 78, “Jesu der du meine Seele.” The program also features orchestral works by Vivaldi and Bach.

Performance Date: May 13 & 20, 2023

There will also be a performance of the Bach Mass in B minor.

Performance Date: May 13 & 20, 2023