Born March 31 nearly 330 years ago in Eisenach, Germany, Johann Sebastian Bach became one of the most ubiquitous names in music.
Durango will do its part in carrying on his legacy and celebrate the late composer by having multiple concerts at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in the form of the Durango Bach Festival, which starts Sunday and runs through the following Saturday.
“I’ll get an idea, and if they idea hounds me over a period of time, I just act on it,” said C. Scott Hagler, minister of music and arts at St. Mark’s, of starting the event eight years ago.
The festival will feature dozens of musicians from Durango and Farmington to honor the great one.
The week of fun begins Sunday afternoon with two student recitals. Tickets are not required, so get there early, get a good seat, or, if you’re lucky, you’ll get a seat. Many of these events could be standing-room only.
“I think Bach appeals to people on different levels. Some of his music can feel pretty mechanical and mathematical, and other music of his can rip your heart out, so there’s that range,” Hagler said.
You might eat lunch every day, but when’s the last time you had Bach’s Lunch? This will be the must-attend event between Monday and Friday.
Recitals will be will be held before each meal from Catering by Cheryl. The performances will include solos and ensembles. Attendees also can meet the musicians and hear interesting lectures.
Hagler says that if people would like to attend the concert “The Keys to Bach” on Wednesday night and Bach’s Birthday Bash Festival Finale Concert on Saturday night, they should get tickets now, because they’re selling fast.
The finale will include an orchestral suite, which is a first for the festival, and Hagler says he’s excited about that one.
So grab a friend or a family member, sit back and enjoy the music, folks.
mhayden@durangoherald.com
If you go
All events are held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 910 E. Third Ave., Durango.
Sunday, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., student recital, free.
Monday-Friday, noon, recital and luncheon.
Wednesday, 7 p.m., “The Keys to Bach” concert.
Saturday, 7 p.m., Bach’s Birthday Bash concert.
Single tickets are $5 for kids, $15 for adults or $95 for a festival pass.
For tickets and more information, visit www.durangobachfestival.com or call 247-1129.
