Annual Celebrity Organ Recital

Internationally acclaimed concert organist Kola Owolabi returns to St. George’s Episcopal Church for the Washington Bach Consort’s Annual Celebrity Organ Recital. Owolabi, Professor of Organ and Head of the Graduate Organ Studio at the University of Notre Dame, performs on the Martin Pasi Op. 28—a historically inspired mechanical-action organ completed in 2021, which he himself inaugurated with its dedication recital. His all‑Bach program is structured around the commanding “Dorian” Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 538, with its two movements enveloping the recital. Between these pillar movements lie three Leipzig chorale preludes: An Wasserflüssen Babylon, BWV 653; Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend, BWV 655; and Nun danket alle Gott, BWV 657. The program also includes the chamber‑like Trio Sonata No. 2 in C minor, BWV 526, and the eloquently varied Partite diverse sopra: Ach, was soll ich Sünder machen, BWV 770. Owolabi is renowned for performances across major North American and European venues, bringing characteristic clarity, color, and interpretative depth to his repertoire.

When: Saturday, February 20, 2027 at 7:00 pm.

Venue: St. George's Episcopal Church, Arlington (St. George’s Arlington).

Program: J.S. Bach – “Dorian” Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 538; three Leipzig chorale preludes (BWV 653, BWV 655, BWV 657); Trio Sonata No. 2 in C minor, BWV 526; Partite diverse sopra: Ach, was soll ich Sünder machen, BWV 770.

Artist: Kola Owolabi, organ.

Instrument: Martin Pasi Op. 28 mechanical-action organ (completed 2021).

Series: This concert is part of the Washington Bach Consort’s Chamber Series.

Tickets: Price not specified; subscriptions to the 2026–2027 season are on sale, and single tickets may be available through the Washington Bach Consort Box Office (202.429.2121).