The Kairos Consort’s Bach Cantata Series continues on Oct. 6

Posted 10/2/19

Kairos: A Consort of Singers, under the direction of Dr. Edward Lundergan, continues its 2019 Bach Cantata Series on Sunday, Oct. 6, at 3:00 p.m. The program will be performed in the intimate and …

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The Kairos Consort’s Bach Cantata Series continues on Oct. 6

Posted

Kairos: A Consort of Singers, under the direction of Dr. Edward Lundergan, continues its 2019 Bach Cantata Series on Sunday, Oct. 6, at 3:00 p.m. The program will be performed in the intimate and acoustically superb chapel of the Holy Cross Monastery, 1615 Route 9W, West Park, N.Y. 12493.

The program will feature Bach’s Cantata No. 18, Gleichwie der Regen und Schnee vom Himmel fällt (“Just as the rain and snow fall from heaven”) with chamber orchestra. Scored for the unusual combination of four violas and two recorders, this cantata is based on the parable of the sower and seed, with rich musical imagery of rain and snowfall, growth and fertility. Kairos will be joined by violists Rachel Evans and David Holland. Rachel has performed medieval music around the world and baroque music with some of this country’s top ensembles; David is a longtime faculty member at the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan.

The concert will also include “Sing Joyfully,” an anthem by the English Renaissance composer William Byrd celebrating the joyful festival that accompanies October’s annual harvest, and the second movement of Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 6.

Kairos’s critically acclaimed Bach Cantata Series is now in its 13th year. The cantatas are performed in the context of evensong, a meditative vespers tradition that can be traced to the medieval church. The service provides an unparalleled opportunity to hear Bach’s cantatas, which are among his most significant and celebrated compositions, in the context for which they were written.

Evensong is remarkably inclusive: People of all faiths and of none return year after year. It is a contemplative, joyful observance, and offers impeccable and poignant performances of Bach’s most intimate and spiritual music. The series has become an integral part of the cultural and musical life of the Hudson Valley, and continues to receive wide critical acclaim.

Evensong is always free to the public, and all are welcome, regardless of religious affiliation (or lack thereof). A $10 suggested donation helps fund the Bach Cantata Series and ensure its continuity.

It is suggested that audience members arrive at the venue at least 20 minutes before the performance to secure seating.
For more information, visit kairosconsort.org or call 845-256-9114.

Directions to the monastery can be found on its website.