A significant transformation has taken place in Chicago's music scene as a fresh initiative, Bach in the City, emerges following the conclusion of the long-standing Bach Week festival. This new venture aims to celebrate the timeless works of Johann Sebastian Bach while addressing the challenges faced by traditional arts organizations. The inaugural concert, titled "Bach and the Venetians," is set to take place at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Lincoln Park, marking the beginning of what organizers hope will become a series of events enriching Chicago's cultural landscape.

Under the guidance of Richard Webster, who previously led 98% of the Bach Week festivals, this project was born out of a passionate plea from devoted musicians and audience members alike. Webster initially hesitated about reviving the festival due to familiar struggles such as dwindling financial support and exhausted volunteers. However, encouragement from individuals like D.J. Gorman, a lawyer with a deep appreciation for classical music, inspired Webster to reconsider. With a revitalized team including Ana Miranda-Gonzalez, a soprano and communications director at St. Vincent de Paul, Bach in the City seeks to establish itself not merely as a continuation but as an evolution of its predecessor. By hosting concerts throughout the year rather than concentrating them during spring, the organization hopes to engage broader audiences and maintain momentum.

This pilot event on March 21st celebrates both Bach’s legacy and the innovative spirit driving Bach in the City forward. Featuring compositions by Bach alongside works by Venetian composers Andrea and Giovanni Gabrieli, the performance promises an immersive experience through antiphonal arrangements involving expansive orchestral and choral forces. The enthusiastic response from choristers eager to sustain their connection with Bach's music underscores the potential impact of this endeavor. As Webster reflects on his enduring passion for conducting and performing at age 72, it becomes clear that Bach in the City represents more than just another musical project; it embodies resilience, creativity, and dedication to preserving classical traditions while exploring new possibilities. Through collaborative efforts and shared enthusiasm, this initiative could inspire future generations to embrace the beauty of Baroque music within Chicago's vibrant arts community.