Événement

J.S. Bach's "B-Minor Mass"

The acclaimed Spire Ensemble teams up with the Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra to present J.S. Bach's monumental "B-Minor Mass" (BWV 232). The work was one of Bach's last compositions not completed until 1749, just a year before his death is has been widely hailed as one of the greatest choral compositions ever written. Bach's musical setting of the complete Latin Mass is not only a synthesis of Bach's stylistic and technical gifts, but a tribute to his deep spirituality and to the most personal theological traditions of his daily life. This work, with its masterful combining of the Catholic and Lutheran liturgy, is the subject of much scholarly work not only about its form and composition, but even about the origins of its first performances. Particularly fascinating is Bach's adaptation of already existing vocal music throughout the piecethe work constantly and consistently inspiring the listener with new life given to vocal music that Bach had previously composed.

The Spire Chamber Ensemble was founded in 2010 as one of the only regional choral groups bringing together some of the best choral artists from around the United States and Canada to Kansas City for a specific concert. Each choral artist has learned the specific program independently and is exacting in their craft. We also attain our distinct and exquisite sound utilizing countertenors to sing alto parts. With the creative and artistic skills of founder and conductor, Ben A. Spalding, and just a few days of intense rehearsals, a collage of beauty and transformative sound is created. The alchemy of these masterful individuals come together to create the Spire Chamber Ensemble.

The Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra is a professional orchestra dedicated to performing music of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries on period instruments. Founded in 1997, the current artistic director is Barthold Kuijken, an internationally renowned Baroque flutist and distinguished Early Music pedagogue. Maestro Kuijken has led the IBO to new heights throughout the past several years, which recently culminated in their first-ever commercial recording of French Baroque music, produced during the 2012/2013 season. The orchestra was named one of the top 25 ensembles in celebration of Early Music America's 25th anniversary in 2011.