Vocal Polyphony: Bach's Polyphonic Heritage

This chamber concert explores the vocal polyphonic traditions that influenced Johann Sebastian Bach, featuring motets and liturgical works for four to eight voices from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Devised by Bach scholar Dr. Daniel R. Melamed, the program surveys the expressive craftsmanship and devotional fervor Bach inherited from his musical predecessors. A group of eight singers from the Washington Bach Consort, joined by organ and violone, bring the repertoire to life, with works by Palestrina, Gallus, Andrea Gabrieli, Bernhard, Schütz, Walter, Knüpfer, Johann Christoph Bach, and Johann Ludwig Bach.

When: The concert takes place on two dates: Friday, November 6, 2026, and Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Showtimes: Both performances begin at 7:00 pm.

Venue: The November 6 concert is held at Live! at 10th & G, while the November 7 concert is held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

Tickets: Ticket pricing is not available from the provided information; subscriptions for the 2026–2027 season are currently on sale and can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 202.429.2121 or through the Washington Bach Consort website.

Program: The program includes motets and liturgical works by Palestrina, Gallus, Andrea Gabrieli, Bernhard, Schütz, Walter, Knüpfer, Johann Christoph Bach, and Johann Ludwig Bach.

Performers: Eight vocalists from the Washington Bach Consort, accompanied by organ and violone.

Note: This performance is part of the Washington Bach Consort's Chamber Series. No information on run time, age restrictions, or accessibility is provided.