The sixth summer of Bach’s music in Allentown begins Tuesday, June 9, with the first of three virtual “Bach at Noon” performances presented by The Bach Choir of Bethlehem at St. John’s Lutheran Church in downtown Allentown.
Because of the restrictions on large gatherings during the COVID-19 outbreak, these concerts will be videotaped, featuring smaller ensembles of musicians who incorporate safe social distancing. They will be presented on the second Tuesday of the month in June, July and August, appearing online on The Bach Choir’s You Tube channel.
Additional viewing options will be announced as they become available. Everyone is welcome to join the choir virtually – no audience members will be admitted to the church.
“Bach at Noon” is a series of 10 free concerts the choir performs each year, including three in downtown Allentown, all led by artistic director and conductor Greg Funfgeld, presented in collaboration with Arts at St. John’s.
This summer, in lieu of gathering a group of choir and orchestra members, the concerts will offer solo pieces, duets and small ensemble compositions, performed by favorite vocal soloists and featuring members of The Bach Festival Orchestra.
“Our ‘Bach at Noon’ concerts have come to mean a great deal to so many people – this musical and spiritual oasis is our gift to the community – offered to young and old, any and all who wish to listen to Bach’s extraordinary music and hear his profoundly spiritual message of hope and peace,” Funfgeld said.
“Though the pandemic precludes our gathering together, these musical offerings will be available this summer online and for that we are grateful and glad.”
Subsequent virtual performances of “Bach at Noon” are scheduled for July 14, and Aug. 11.
