On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Boston will once again pay homage to Johann Sebastian Bach through a vibrant celebration at the First Lutheran Church. This seventeenth annual event, known as the Boston Bach Birthday, draws hundreds of music enthusiasts who gather to honor the legendary composer's contributions to the world of music. The festival, held on the Saturday closest to Bach’s birthday, offers an entire day filled with concerts featuring not only Bach's works but also those of his predecessors and successors. Admission to all musical events remains free and open to the public.
A Day Filled with Melodies and Traditions
In the heart of spring, the city of Boston prepares for a memorable musical journey. Since its inception in 2008, the Boston Bach Birthday has become a cherished tradition, particularly highlighting the Richards, Fowkes & Co. opus 10 pipe organ, which plays a central role in the festivities. The day kicks off at 9:00 AM with Jonathan Wessler, Kantor of First Lutheran Church, performing Bach’s Neumeister Chorales and Eight Christmas Fughettas. Later, Grant Smith, fresh from winning third place at the International Bach Competition in Leipzig, takes over at 1:10 PM with a program that includes Bach’s Canonic Variations and Concerto in D Minor after Vivaldi. Finally, at 2:55 PM, Brandon Santini presents an all-Bach recital, showcasing preludes, fugues, and more.
The chamber music segment features performances by violinist Cynthia Freivogel and harpsichordist Artem Belogurov, who present "Bach and His Circle," exploring the works of Bach and his contemporaries. At 4:05 PM, the ensemble Beantown Baroque performs a selection of baroque masterpieces. Adding variety, pianist Calvin Kotrba returns at 3:45 PM with a performance of Bach’s Fantasy and Fugue in A Minor, paired with movements from Beethoven’s Sonata No. 28.
No Bach celebration is complete without a cantata. At 5:00 PM, the Vespers service includes In allen meinen Taten, BWV 94, alongside sermons and hymns. Young musicians from First Lutheran Church and Powers Music School will also perform in a special concert at 10:35 AM, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Bach’s music to future generations.
To complement the musical offerings, attendees can enjoy a traditional German lunch at noon, featuring dishes like pretzels, sausage, and potato salad. Whether attending one event or staying for the entire day, visitors leave enriched by both the music and the spirit of the occasion.
From a journalist's perspective, the Boston Bach Birthday exemplifies the timeless relevance of classical music in modern times. It serves as a reminder that great art transcends eras, connecting past and present. The event not only celebrates Bach’s legacy but also fosters a deeper appreciation for historical performance practices, encouraging both seasoned listeners and newcomers to explore the rich tapestry of baroque music. This festival stands as a testament to the power of music to inspire and unite communities.