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 – Tickets available!

Sunday, February 18, 4:00 to 6:00 PM – Tickets available!

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!

Location TBD

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 the WVU African Drum Ensemble, an African American dance troupe, Chanel Holt, soprano, and David Hughey, baritone.

2023-2024 Season

The Bach Choir of Pittsburgh thanks all of our choir members who participated in the new Peer-to-Peer fundraiser in early 2023, and everyone who donated in honor of our participating singers. We raised over an astounding 18K in contributions. Look for the upcoming Peer-to-Peer fundraiser in early 2024. But, you can donate now, too!