2023-2024 Season

Artistic Statement

Thomas W. Douglas

I generally start planning performance seasons a few years before they materialize. This season, I had the upcoming 90th anniversary of the Bach Choir and my 20th year as Artistic Director of the Choir to reflect upon. I also considered other events that happened in the past that could be celebrated or reflected upon during the new Season. Thinking about anniversaries and remembering that it has been 25 years since Matthew Shepard’s tragic death in Laramie, Wyoming, I thought it appropriate to bring the thoughtful and reflective Considering Matthew Shepard to the performance stage. There have been several productions of this piece, and we are proud to offer it again in the wake of this anniversary.

The result of my reflections is the 2023-2024 season entitled “Solace.” In this season, the Bach Choir will present music that can provide comfort and cheer in times of distress or sadness. The season begins in November with “A Passion,” Craig Hella Johnson’s Considering Matthew Shepard, which recognizes the strong emotions that arise from tragedy. “A Consolation” – Johannes Brahms’  Ein Deutsches Requiem (A German Requiem), a divinely respected requiem Mass with a unique chamber orchestration – follows in February. The season ends in April with “A Satire,” a Carl Orff adaptation entitled Carmina Burana Africana, which captures the humor of everyday life and pokes fun at anything held sacred – this performance features an African drum ensemble and an African American dance troupe.

A Passion: Considering Matthew Shepard by Craig Hella Johnson

Saturday, November 18, 7:30 to 9:30 PM

Sunday, November 19, 4:00 to 6:00 PM

Bitz Opera Factory (George R. White Opera Studio), 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222

It has been 25 years since Matthew Shepard was murdered in Laramie, Wyoming. His death brought needed attention to hate crimes, and we still shudder when we consider the brutality that he suffered.  This passion is a statement to all of us, and a call to be more aware of discrimination and suffering. Featuring members of the Academy Chamber Orchestra.

A Consolation: Ein Deutsches Requiem (A German Requiem) by Johannes Brahms

Saturday, February 17, 7:30 to 9:30 PM

Sunday, February 18, 4:00 to 6:00 PM

Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 250 N. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206

A requiem is said to be a Mass for the dead; instead it is a comfort for the living. Brahms departed from the traditional Catholic Latin requiem Mass by composing reflections based on the amazing poetry of the Old Testament. A German Requiem is sacred, but not liturgical. In German. Featuring Nicole Tascarella, soprano, and Graham Fandrei, baritone.

A Satire: Carmina Burana Africana by Carl Orff (an adaptation)

Friday, April 26, 7:30 to 9:30 PM – Tickets available!

Saturday, April 27, 4:00 to 6:00 PM – Tickets available!

Campbell Memorial Chapel at Chatham University – https://maps.app.goo.gl/aM24oK7bm2bBGSZE6

This collection of mostly bawdy, irreverent and satirical medieval poetry includes the Latin, German and French vernacular.  The songs and poems were written by Goliards, clergy (mostly students) who satirized the Catholic Church. Featuring Chanel Holte, soprano; Graham Fandrei, baritone; the WVU African Drum Ensemble; and Kaylin Horgan and her company of dancers.

2024 SUMMER SING PROGRAM

Three Separate (and different) Sessions – Tickets Available!

Come and sing with the Bach Choir!

WHO:  Open to the community! No auditions necessary!

WHAT:  A low commitment – high enjoyment choral experience. Summer Sing is a wild experience – a cross between an open rehearsal of a choral masterwork and a reading session with singers of all levels of training and experience. We will read by sight and make what music we can within three Tuesday evening rehearsals. It is always joyful but exhausting, magical and a little bit messy. Mostly, it’s just good choral fun! Attend one or more sessions – they’re all different. $15/session, or all three sessions for $40; scholarships are available, contact info@bachchoirpittsburgh.org.

WHERE:  Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

WHEN:   June 4, 2024, 7:00 to 10:00 PM – W. A. Mozart, Requiem in D Minor

                  June 11, 2024, 7:00 to 10:00 PM – Benjamin Britten, Rejoice in the Lamb

                  June 18, 2024, 7:00 to 10:00 PM – Howard Hanson, Song of Democracy

The Bach Choir of Pittsburgh has a goal of raising $10,000 during its 2024 Peer-to-Peer Fundraiser! Look for an email or social media post from one of our choir members to help them reach their goal, or donate directly to the choir here! Thank you for all you do to support “choral performance like you’ve not seen before”!