J.S. Bach’s partitas BWV 825-830, the first of which is the composer’s self-proclaimed Opus 1, form part of his Clavier-Übung I that was published in 1731. There is a substantial body of evidence that suggest that these works were rather popular when first published, something that we believe remains true today. These six works for keyboard exist as part Bach’s hefty compositional corpus, and are all functional, bespoke, and beautiful.

Join us for a celebratory afternoon as we bring our Partitas series to a conclusion. This concert marks a significant moment, the final performance with OBS before Founder and Artistic Director, Tom Hammond-Davies, embarks on a new journey in Dallas, Texas. Come and celebrate our remarkable journey and the future that lies ahead!

• Cantata: Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich (BWV 150)
• Keyboard Partita No. 6 (BWV 830)
• Aria: Bekennen will ich seinen Namen (BWV 200)
• Cantata: Der Friede sei mit dir (BWV 158)

Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich (BWV 150) is filled with youthful vigour and profound spirituality. It is possibly Bach’s earliest extant Cantata, and showcases the early development of his unique voice. The themes of longing and divine support set a contemplative tone and is one of the most treasured Cantatas in the canon.

The intricate and virtuosic Partita No. 6 in E minor (BWV 830), with its demanding technical passages and emotional depth, serve as a bridge between the sacred vocal works and the instrumental brilliance that Bach so masterfully combined.

The short aria for solo alto, Bekennen will ich seinen Namen (BWV 200), is a poignant and intimate piece that delves into personal faith and proclamation. This work, with its delicate orchestration and expressive vocal line, serves as a lyrical interlude that connects the grandeur of the larger works with individual expression of devotion.

The concert concludes with an Easter Cantata for solo bass, Der Friede sei mit dir (BWV 158), bringing a message of peace. Its reflective and optimistic nature provides a fitting and heartfelt farewell.