APRIL 30 - MAY 2, 2027
Ensemble Apsley
Ensemble-in-Residence
New England Composers
Venues
The New England Bach Festival is a biennial celebration of Johann Sebastian Bach and his enduring legacy Held in Armidale, NSW in May, it is Australia’s only Bach festival, and brings together leading national and regional musicians in a program of concerts, workshops, and community events
Since 2003, the festival has presented more than 300 works by Bach alongside repertoire spanning four centuries, including works by New England composers commissioned and premiered by the festival. Performances take place in a variety of architectural and cultural contexts – concert hall, cathedral liturgy, civic space, and domestic home – creating distinctive experiences that connect music, place, and community.
300 works by J. S. Bach
40 works by current composers
10 festival commissions
145 musicians/ ensembles
For 2027, rather than presenting isolated performances, invited musicians will form a core team of artistic leadership:
Dr Elizabeth Scott: Conductor-in-Residence
One of Australia’s foremost choral conductors, Elizabeth Scott is renowned for her interpretations of Bach’s choral works. She will conduct two cantata performances, and offer two workshops for community and school choirs.
Alice Rickards: International Guest Artist
A member of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, the Dunedin Consort, and the Australian Haydn Ensemble, violinist Alice Rickards returns home to Armidale. She will perform in four events, and lead New England New Music.
Ensemble Apsley: Ensemble-in-Residence
Armidale’s own professional chamber orchestra brings together musicians from Armidale and Brisbane. They will perform across multiple festival events, and run a series of instrumental masterclasses for advanced students
Festival Chorus
Three guest vocalists combine with nine local singers to perform two cantatas by Bach, and assist in leading the Festival Evensong.
A festival that places musicians at its heart.
attracts cultural tourism engages schools and community groups provides development opportunities for emerging musicians employs professional musicians continues a unique regional festival champions New England composers fosters creative exchange
over 500 attendees in 2025 activates Armidale’s CBD showcases Armidale’s architectural heritage
enriches cultural life
via Auspicious Arts Projects Inc
Tailored packages enable businesses and individuals to contribute to the artistic and community life of the festival through sponsorship
via the Australian Cultural Fund
Donate via the Australian Cultural Fund. All donations over $2 are fully tax-deductible.
