92ND SEASON BROCHURE PRESENTED BY THE BACH FESTIVAL SOCIETY OF WINTER PARK
AT ROLLINS COLLEGE SINCE 1935
2026-2027 Roomful of Teeth
October 4, 2026 • 3:00 PM
Berlioz Requiem
October 25, 2026 • 3:00 PM
Fables, Feathers, and Fins with the Bach Vocal Artists
October 29, 2026 • 7:30 PM
Boston Six with the Bach Festival Chamber Choir
November 13, 2026 • 7:30 PM
A Classic Christmas Paul Galbraith, guitar
December 12, 2026 • 1:00 & 3:30 PM December 13, 2026 • 1:00 & 3:30 PM January 17, 2027 • 3:00 PM
92nd Ann ual Bach Fe s ti val Music for the Night with the Bach Vocal Artists
February 5, 2027 • 7:30 PM
Organ Recital with Ken Cowan
February 6, 2027 • 7:30 PM
Third Annual National Oratorio Competition
February 12, 2027 • 7:30 PM
Concertos by Candlelight: Brahms & Beethoven
February 19, 2027 • 7:30 PM February 20, 2027 • 7:30 PM
Beethoven: Sacred Send-Off
February 21, 2027 • 3:00 PM
Bach: St. Matthew Passion
February 28, 2027 • 3:00 PM
Balourdet Quartet with Byeol Kim
April 4, 2027 • 3:00 PM
A Plea for Peace with the Bach Vocal Artists
April 9, 2027 • 7:30 PM
Low and Behold: Bach Festival Men
April 11, 2027 • 3:00 PM
Sublime Sounds: Vaughn Williams & Jongen
April 24, 2027 • 7:30 PM April 25, 2027 • 3:00 PM
Welcome to our 92nd season Dear Good People, It is my great pleasure to invite you to join us for an inspiring new season, our 92nd, of extraordinary performances. As we open another year of musicmaking, we look forward to sharing the beauty, power, and timeless relevance of classical music. This season has been thoughtfully curated to offer something for every listener—from beloved masterworks that have shaped generations to exciting discoveries and fresh perspectives from today’s composers. Each concert is designed to inspire, challenge, and connect us through the profound language of music. After all, classical music at its heart is human drama with a soundtrack. Stories of faith, struggle, hope, and triumph, carried by some of the most glorious sounds ever heard. You need no special training to be moved by it; you need only to listen. Live performance offers an experience unlike any Photo credit: Mary Kent other, and there is a particular kind of magic that happens when a chorus, orchestra, and soloists come together to create a distinctive connection between musicians and audience. Whether you are a longtime supporter or attending for the first time, we believe you will find joy, inspiration, and a sense of community in these performances. So please explore our musical offerings and join us for concerts that promise unforgettable experiences. We encourage you to reserve your seats early, consider a subscription, and share the excitement with family and friends. Thank you for being part of our musical community and let’s share another amazing season. With gratitude and warmest regards,
John V. Sinclair Artistic Director and Conductor
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TIC KETS & SUB SCRIP T I O NS Select your Full Season or Annual Festival Subscription package for the best value! Seating Options Subscribers may choose from Premium, Preferred, or Standard seating options. Premium offers the most desirable locations and sound experience. To view seating charts for all venues visit: bachfestivalflorida.org/subscriptions.
FULL SEASON SUBSCRIPTION Save 15% off individual ticket prices and lock in your favorite seats. This package includes all 92nd Season performances. Premium: $965 Preferred: $765 Standard: $525
ANNUAL FESTIVAL SUBSCRIPTION Save 15% off individual ticket prices and lock in your favorite seats. This package includes all 92nd Bach Festival performances and a 15% discount code for performances at Steinmetz Hall. Premium: $285 Preferred: $235 Standard: $165 For Steinmetz Hall performances, a discount code and details on how to purchase tickets through the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performance Arts will be provided via email. Contact the Box Office to learn more. *All fees included.
SUBSCRIBE NOW 4
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P U R C H AS E N OW ! BachFestivalFlorida.org/tickets BOX OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday 10:00am-4:00pm
407.646.2182 203 E. Lyman Ave. Winter Park, FL 32789 2nd Floor QUESTIONS? BoxOffice@BachFestivalFlorida.org MAILING ADDRESS:
Bach Festival Society of Winter Park 1000 Holt Ave. Box #2763 Winter Park, FL 32789
ACCESSIBILITY The Bach Festival Society is committed to making its program accessible to audiences. Tiedtke Concert Hall and Knowles Memorial Chapel on the Rollins College campus in Winter Park have accessible entrances and parking options available, as does Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando. Please call 407-646-2182 for assistance. Performance details are subject to change. To learn more, please visit BachFestivalFlorida.org 5 BachFestivalFlorida.org/ticket-policy.
Photo credit: Courtesy of the Artist
ROOMFUL OF TEETH
Sunday, October 4, 2026 • 3:00 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Two-time Grammy Award–winning vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth redefines the capabilities of the human voice. Their signature blend of global vocal techniques and bold contemporary repertoire creates a visceral, world-class musical experience. This performance is a must-see for those seeking a fresh and modern perspective on the choral tradition. Tickets start at $25.
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
BERLIOZ REQUIEM
Sunday, October 25, 2026 • 3:00 pm | Steinmetz Hall Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor Jonathan Boyd, tenor Experience a monumental once-in-a-lifetime musical event as the Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra perform Hector Berlioz’s Requiem. Renowned for its massive orchestral forces and the thunderous “Dies irae,” this performance utilizes dramatic space to create an overwhelming, almost apocalyptic wall of sound. It is a profound exploration of solemn liturgical text through bold, transcendent orchestration. Tickets Start at $45.
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
FABLES, FEATHERS, AND FINS WITH THE BACH VOCAL ARTISTS
Thursday, October 29, 2026 • 7:30 pm | Tiedtke Concert Hall Bach Vocal Artists John V. Sinclair, conductor Immerse yourself in a world of storytelling through music inspired by animals, myths, and whimsical creatures. The program centers on Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Unicorn, the Gorgon, and the Manticore, a lively madrigal fable blending humor and satire. This imaginative performance offers a delightful journey through moral reflection and musical wit. Tickets Start at $30. 8
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
BOSTON SIX WITH THE BACH FESTIVAL CHAMBER CHOIR
Friday, November 13, 2026 • 7:30 pm | Tiedtke Concert Hall Bach Festival Chamber Choir and Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor
Explore the roots of the late 19th-century American classical tradition with a program dedicated to the Boston Six: composers Amy Beach, George Whitefield Chadwick, Arthur Foote, Edward MacDowell, John Knowles Paine, and Horatio Parker. This group of composers sought to establish a distinctly American voice within the European Romantic tradition. It is a richly melodic evening that provides a fascinating historical look at the pioneers of American music. Tickets Start at $30. BachFestivalFlorida.org
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
A CLASSIC CHRISTMAS
Saturday, December 12, 2026 • 1:00 pm & 3:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Sunday, December 13, 2026 • 1:00 pm & 3:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor Catherine Psarakis, soprano Kevin Deas, bass-baritone
THIS
A cherished Central Florida tradition; A Classic Christmas EVENT WILL returns to the beautiful Knowles Memorial Chapel for a SELL OUT. program of stunning holiday arrangements. Featuring the acclaimed Bach Choir, Orchestra, Youth Choir, and special guest soloists, this performance captures the timeless expression of the Christmas story through a rich, soaring sound. WUCF also returns this year to film the performance for national broadcast on PBS stations and the PBS app. Tickets Start at $35.
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
PAUL GALBRAITH, GUITAR
Sunday, January 17, 2027 • 3:00 pm | Tiedtke Concert Hall Renowned as one of the greatest guitarists of our time, Paul Galbraith brings his innovative playing style and deeply emotive artistry to the stage. His unique approach to the instrument allows for a richer, more resonant sound that breathes new life into classical arrangements. Experience a master at work in an intimate setting that highlights his unique talent. Tickets Start at $30.
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92 N D A N N U A L B AC H F E ST I VA L
Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
MUSIC FOR THE NIGHT WITH THE BACH VOCAL ARTISTS
Friday, February 5, 2027 • 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Vocal Artists John V. Sinclair, conductor
Focusing on the mystery and beauty of the evening, this program features music that evokes a sense of calm and introspection. Centered on the lush harmonies of Morten Lauridsen and the suspended, dreamlike atmospheres of Eric Whitacre, the music provides a serene, contemplative experience. It is a night of soft, sustained harmonies that feel suspended in time. Tickets Start at $25. 12
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ORGAN RECITAL WITH KEN COWAN
Saturday, February 6, 2027 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel This recital is made possible by Rollins College through the Faith Emeny Conger ‘54 Visiting Organist Concert Series. Hailed as one of North America’s finest concert organists, Ken Cowan is celebrated for his dazzling virtuosity and a masterful ability to draw on an orchestral range of color from the instrument. A graduate of the Curtis Institute and Yale, and currently a professor at Rice University, he combines technical brilliance with a profound musicality that has captivated audiences at the world’s most prestigious venues. This event is free and open to the public. Photo credit: Courtesy of the Artist
RSVP on our website.
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92 N D A N N U A L
PRESENTED BY THE BACH FESTIVAL SOCIET Y OF W
FEBRUARY 05 - FE
B AC H F E ST I VA L
WINTER PARK AT ROLLINS COLLEGE SINCE 1935
E B R U A RY 2 8 , 2 027 Photo credit: Rich Johnson
Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
THIRD ANNUAL NATIONAL ORATORIO COMPETITION
Friday, February 12, 2027 • 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Festival Chamber Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor
Experience the next generation of Oratorio singers as they compete for more than $10,000 in prize money. The National Oratorio Competition was created to support emerging talent by providing young performers with opportunities for coaching sessions, rehearsals with the Bach Festival Orchestra, masterclasses conducted by music education experts, and a chance to perform in the final concert. This event is free and open to the public. RSVP on our website. 16
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Photo credit: Jiyang Chen
Photo credit: Courtesy of the Artist
CONCERTOS BY CANDLELIGHT: BRAHMS AND BEETHOVEN
Friday, February 19, 2027 • 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Saturday, February 20, 2027 • 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Festival Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor Itamar Zorman, violin Byeol Kim, piano Witness instrumental brilliance with Brahms’ Violin Concerto, performed by Itamar Zorman, and Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4, featuring Byeol Kim. From Brahms’ sweeping Romantic warmth to Beethoven’s lyrical introspection and bold innovation, this program captures both intimate dialogue and heroic spirit. This evening of technical brilliance offers a masterful showcase of the expressive depth of two legendary composers. Tickets Start at $30. BachFestivalFlorida.org
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
BEETHOVEN: SACRED SEND-OFF
Sunday, February 21, 2027 | 3:00 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor Anna Eschbach, soprano Morgan Peckels, mezzo Steven Soph, tenor Stephen Mumbert, bass In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s passing, the Bach Festival Society recreates the music performed at his historic celebration of life service. The centerpiece is Cherubini’s Requiem; a work Beethoven himself declared superior to Mozart’s and the premier model for the genre. This evocative performance honors the legacy of a musical titan through the works he held in highest regard. Tickets Start at $30.
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BACH ST. MATTHEW PASSION
Sunday, February 28, 2027 • 3:00 pm Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor Anna Eschbach, soprano Amanda Crider, mezzo Erik Gustafson, tenor Kevin Deas, bass-baritone John Grau, Evangelist Thomas McCargar, Jesus Lisa Terry, viola da gamba Joanne Kong, harpsichord David Bjella, continuo
At the heart of The Bach Festival lies Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, a cornerstone of sacred music celebrating the 300th anniversary of its first performance. This monumental work provides a profound journey of emotional depth and spiritual gravity, serving as the heart of our annual Festival. Join us for a definitive performance of this sacred masterpiece that continues to define the choral repertoire. Tickets Start at $30.
E N D O F F E ST I VA L
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Photo credit: Luke Ratray
BALOURDET QUARTET WITH BYEOL KIM PIANO
Sunday, April 4, 2027 • 3:00 pm Tiedtke Concert Hall
Winners of the 2024 Avery Fisher Career Photo credit: Courtesy of the Artist Grant, the Balourdet Quartet is acclaimed for their vibrant energy and technical precision. Having recently debuted at Carnegie and Wigmore Halls, this ensemble brings a fresh, masterful perspective to beloved classical works. Their performance is a captivating blend of emotional depth and the masterful synchronization of four elite musicians. Tickets Start at $30.
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
A PLEA FOR PEACE WITH THE BACH VOCAL ARTISTS
Friday, April 9, 2027 • 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Vocal Artists John V. Sinclair, conductor
Centering on themes of harmony, justice, and reconciliation, this program highlights the human desire for unity. The cornerstone work is Randall Thompson’s The Peaceable Kingdom, a powerful choral setting that envisions a world of collective hope. Through these biblical and secular texts, the Bach Vocal Artists explore the enduring pursuit of concord and peace. Tickets Start at $25. BachFestivalFlorida.org
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
LOW AND BEHOLD: BACH FESTIVAL MEN
Sunday, April 11, 2027 • 3:00 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel John V. Sinclair, conductor Celebrate the rich, deep sonorities of the Bach Festival Choir’s tenor and bass sections in a program that is engaging, entertaining, and just plain fun. Moving through a varied selection of sacred and secular repertoire, the concert highlights both the power and the subtle nuance of male ensemble singing. It is a unique showcase of choral versatility and camaraderie. Tickets Start at $25.
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
SUBLIME SOUNDS: VAUGHN WILLIAMS & JONGEN
Saturday, April 24, 2027 • 7:30 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Sunday, April 25, 2027 • 3:00 pm | Knowles Memorial Chapel Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra John V. Sinclair, conductor Jessica Beebe, soprano Brandon Hendrickson, bass-baritone Paul Jacobs, organ This recital is made possible by Rollins College through the Faith Emeny Conger ‘54 Visiting Organist Concert Series
This extraordinary evening features a call for Photo credit: Courtesy of the Artist peace through Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem alongside the bold power of Jongen’s Symphonie Concertante. Featuring the incomparable organist Paul Jacobs, the program blends lush Romantic textures with a thrilling showcase of organ and orchestra. It is both a serene and sonic exploration designed to resonate with the soul long after the final note. Tickets Start at $25. BachFestivalFlorida.org
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Photo credit: Courtesy of the Artist
Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
A B O U T B AC H Founded in 1935 on the Rollins College Campus, Bach Festival Society of Winter Park’s mission is to inspire the human spirit through extraordinary music, powerful choral performances and innovative programing that celebrates the legacy of J.S. Bach. T H E B AC H F E ST I VA L C H O I R Recipients of international recognition for excellence among oratorio and choral societies, the heart of Bach’s performances are provided by more than 200 auditioned volunteers who specialize in singing choral masterworks. T H E B AC H F E ST I VA L O R C H E ST R A Comprised of up to 60 professional musicians of the highest caliber from across Central Florida. Many orchestra members serve the industry as professional educators at colleges, universities, or in private instruction. COMMUNITY CHOIRS The young musicians of the Bach Festival Youth Choirs feature the next generation of talented voices. These dedicated young singers meet weekly for rehearsals. Enjoy their performance during our A Classic Christmas concert and in other boutique concerts around the community. Our Young at Heart Chorale is an all-volunteer group of 55+ singers who enjoy community and connection through music. They meet weekly for rehearsals and perform in local community venues, such as senior living centers. 24
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Photo credit: Bach Festival Society
E D U CAT I O N P RO G RA MS Providing classical music education and enrichment for the next generation is integral to the mission of the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park. Under the direction of Sondra Jo Jones, Education Manager, Bach provides the following programs for our youth: A L L - STAT E P R E P C A M P A 4-day intensive workshop for middle and high school students, offered on the Rollins College Campus. Students receive extensive musical training to help prepare for the FVA all-state auditions process. C H O I R O F D I ST I N C T I O N An annual program inviting select Central Florida high school choirs to participate in a multi-phase auditions process leading to special recognition, mentorship by Bach Festival Society musical experts, and performance opportunities with the Bach Festival Orchestra. M I D D L E A N D H I G H S C H O O L H O N O R S C H O R A L F E ST I VA L Provides Middle and High School students with workshops with collegiate choral directors to help the choirs prepare for their annual Music Performance Assessments. F R E S H STA R TS In partnership with Osceola and Seminole County School Districts, FreshStARTS offers interdisciplinary educational and artistic experiences for K-12 students by sending live, curriculum-based performances into schools. C.H.I.M.E. The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park is collaborating with local senior living communities to launch an innovative program called C.H.I.M.E. (Cognitive Health Interactive Music Ensemble). This initiative enhances cognitive function and fosters community among senior citizens through music making. BachFestivalFlorida.org
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G I V E B AC H Your investment in the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park supports the preservation of the history and influence of J.S. Bach, directly supports Bach’s education programs in Central Florida’s K-12 schools, and ensures that the arts remain a strong influence across our community. As an independent 501c(3) nonprofit organization, we rely on your support to hire local musicians, create musical community with our youth and senior choirs, for our new C.H.I.M.E. initiative to support cognitive health, and present and preserve the legacy of J.S. Bach through choral and orchestral classical music.
Consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Bach Festival Society today and know that you are continuing a 92-year-old tradition in your neighborhood.
M A K E YO U R TA X - D E D U C T I B L E D O N AT I O N Securely Online
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www.BachFestival Florida.org/giving
407.646.2182
1000 Holt Ave. #2763 Winter Park, FL 32789
STO C K G I F TS
SPONSORSHIPS
Bach gratefully accepts gifts of stock and distributions from retirement plans (subject to IRS guidelines). Gifting stock has valuable tax benefits and maximizes your investment.
Interested in sponsoring an orchestra, choir member, cash bar, program book or other aspect of our performances? We would love to feature you.
For more information on stock gifts or sponsorships, please send an email to philanthropy@bachfestivalflorida.org. The EIN for the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park is 59-6015959. The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park’s State of Florida Solicitation of Contributions Act Registration Number is CH1655. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 26
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International Recognition | Rigorous Rehearsals Challenging Repertoire Since 1935, the Bach Festival Choir has been recognized by audiences and critics alike for its exceptional musicianship, national and international collaborations, and musical versatility within the classical genre. A cornerstone of the classical music tradition in the United States, the Winter Park Bach Choir is the longest continuously performing chorus in Central Florida and the third longest-running Bach Choir in the country.
LEARN MORE
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Our 92nd Season is supported by many generous individual donors and is funded in part by Orange County, Florida, through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program; United Arts of Central Florida, your local agency for the arts; Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation; Elizabeth Morse Genius Foundation; Elinor & T.W. Miller, Jr. Foundation; Pabst Steinmetz Foundation; AdventHealth; Winifred Johnson Clive Foundation; The Joe & Sarah Galloway Foundation; The Magruder Foundation, The O’Donnel Family Foundation, John Templeton Foundation, and Rollins College.
Major Support Provided By
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Winter Park, FL 32789
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