Easter 2023
“Don’t cry for me, for I go where music is born”
- J.S. Bach
What better way to contemplate new life and new beginnings than through the music of Bach? Synonymous with Easter but transcending belief, Bach’s music speaks of the hope of being human in a way no other does. Wrapped up with concert celebrations for two new album releases, Barnaby Smith BACH and Apollo5 Invocations, VOCES8 and its Foundation Choir brought to you Bach’s St John Passion from Cadogan Hall with the English Chamber Orchestra and Evangelist James Way.
Alongside this, a clamoured for re-showing of its 5* The Times reviewed Bach B Minor Mass, filmed at St Bartholomew the Great with the Academy of Ancient Music, Carolyn Sampson, Iestyn Davies, Jeremy Budd and Matthew Brook – both under the baton of Barnaby Smith.
“…this sublime performance of the B minor Mass. It’s hard to argue with two hours of Bach in all his glory when performed with the finesse shown by Voces8 and the Academy of Ancient Music.”
— ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ The Times
Around Bach’s two major works were woven concert celebrations of album releases: Invocations, by the critically acclaimed ensemble Apollo5 and Fraser Wilson, shared fragments of the group’s life stories encouraging listeners to discover their own ‘life music’. A unique blend of traditional choral music and contemporary pieces showcased the versatility and creativity of these musicians. Barnaby Smith’s docu-concert BACH showed the making of his album which features two iconic solo cantatas, Ich habe genug and Vergnügte Ruh, with arias and a duet from Bach’s great oratorios – all performed with the celebrated Illyria Consort.
The Easter Festival was filmed from beautiful venues in the heart of London, all in support of The VOCES8 Foundation’s extensive education and diversity work around the world. Whether you're a lifelong Bach fan or looking for an uplifting musical experience, LIVE From London Easter, had something for everyone in Spring 2023.
Please note: Any ticket links that appear in videos on this page are historic and not operational