In the lead-up to Christmas, the Bach Society of Saint Louis’ Christmas Candlelight Concert is a tradition almost as old as eggnog itself—this year marks the 75th anniversary of the organization devoted to performing choral works by Johann Sebastian Bach, among other classical composers.
To mark the occasion, world-renowned soprano Christine Brewer will join the Bach Society Chorus and Orchestra to sing a selection from Handel’s "Messiah" and one from Bach's "Magnificat" as well as to introduce a new arrangement of "O Holy Night." The St. Louis Children’s Choirs will also join in for the traditional candlelight procession.
On Friday’s “Cityscape,” Brewer and Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger, D.M.A., joined host Steve Potter to discuss the concert and the organization’s 75th anniversary:
“This is our 65th Christmas Candlelight concert; it started 10 years after the Bach Society was formed in 1941,” Sparger said. “Our entire season is planned around looking back at what we’ve accomplished and moving forward as an organization.”
In January, the Bach Society will receive the “Excellence in the Arts” award from Arts and Education Council of Greater St. Louis.
Related Event
What: Bach Society of Saint Louis Christmas Candlelight Concert
When: Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103
More information.
“Cityscape” is produced by Mary Edwards, Alex Heuer, and Kelly Moffitt. The show is sponsored in part by the Missouri Arts Council, the Regional Arts Commission, and the Arts and Education Council of Greater St. Louis.
