About the program
First performed in Leipzig in 1727, Bach’s St Matthew Passion brings together two ensembles of singers and instruments in a vast musical setting of the Passion narrative. Evangelist narration, chorales, arias and choruses move between dramatic action and reflection.
The Canberra Bach Ensemble presents two performances at St Christopher’s Cathedral in March 2027, marking the work’s 300th anniversary.
Leipzig 2027
Following its 2024 appearance at the Leipzig Bach Festival, the Canberra Bach Ensemble returns to Leipzig in June 2027 to perform Bach’s cantatas BWV 61 and BWV 7 in the Nikolaikirche. Canberra audiences can hear the festival program in two preview concerts in May.
Canberra Preview Concerts
Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 61
Christ unser Herr zum Jordan kam, BWV 7
22–23 May 2027
Canberra
Leipzig Bach Festival
Bach cantatas BWV 61 and BWV 7
17 June 2027
Nikolaikirche, Leipzig