Chorale Architecture: From Expectation to Fulfillment

The Washington Bach Consort opens its 2026–2027 season with four cantatas by Johann Sebastian Bach, examining how chorale melodies shape the musical structure of each work. The program traces an emotional journey from Advent anticipation and urgent prayer through watchful readiness to joyful assurance.

The concert begins with the regal Advent character of *Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland*, BWV 61, whose opening movement draws on the style of a French overture. Bach’s rarely performed *Nimm von uns, Herr*, BWV 101, follows with unusually pointed dissonances that intensify its setting of a plea associated with the Lord’s Prayer. *Wachet auf*, BWV 140, explores both lively and contemplative forms of readiness, while *Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben*, BWV 147, closes the program with a message of joy and confidence. Its recurring chorale melody is widely known as “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.”

When: October 4, 2026

Showtimes: 4:00 p.m.

Venue: National Presbyterian Church

Series: Director’s Series

Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach

Program: *Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland*, BWV 61; *Nimm von uns, Herr*, BWV 101; *Wachet auf*, BWV 140; and *Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben*, BWV 147

Soloists: Elijah McCormack, soprano; Kristen Dubenion-Smith, alto; Andrew Bearden Brown, tenor; and Paul Max Tipton, bass

Tickets: Price not available

Underwriters: William B. Munier and Laurinda L. Rohn, and Tom Morante and Marianne Splitter