SUBMITTED BY BACH ON THE ROCK MUSIC SOCIETY
Salt Spring continues the Bach extravaganza with a much-anticipated “double-header” at ArtSpring theatre next Saturday and Sunday, March 22 and 23.
A Night of Bach and Haydn: March 22
Saturday evening’s performance features the Bach on the Rock choir and orchestra, under the direction of Jean-Sébastien Lévesque, with special guest, world-renowned Canadian pianist Robert Silverman.
The concert will open at 7:30 p.m. with Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 80 in D minor, a striking piece composed in 1784. This symphony is one of the few later works by Haydn to begin in a minor key, giving it a bold and dramatic tone. With its highly structured movements, Symphony No. 80 demonstrates Haydn’s mastery in creating both emotional depth and musical complexity.
Next, Silverman will be the piano soloist for Bach’s Concerto in D minor, BWV 1052, a powerful and virtuosic keyboard concerto. Originally composed for harpsichord and Baroque string orchestra, this concerto showcases Bach’s genius in balancing intricate counterpoint with elemental energy. The first and third movements are especially energetic, with themes that evoke the dramatic, lively spirit of Vivaldi. The middle Adagio movement, in contrast, offers a lyrical, deeply expressive moment.
The evening will conclude with Bach’s Mass in A major, BWV 234. This beautiful work is part of a series of shorter “Lutheran masses” that Bach composed, designed for use in church services. The Mass in A major is filled with rich choral harmonies and expressive solo lines, offering a powerful experience for both performers and listeners. It has a clear, flowing structure, with each movement balancing choral and solo sections, and is noted for its elegance and reverence. To top it all off, there will be a concession at intermission including (Canadian) beverages.
A Piano Recital: March 23
On Sunday afternoon, Robert Silverman will take the stage once again, this time performing 18 of the preludes and fugues from Johann Sebastian Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I. This monumental collection of 24 prelude and fugue pairs is considered one of the greatest achievements in Western classical music. Composed in 1722, The Well-Tempered Clavier showcases Bach’s genius in creating music that is both complex and deeply satisfying. The preludes and fugues demonstrate his mastery of counterpoint, harmony and structure. Silverman brings a lifetime of experience to these works. This will be an unforgettable performance, which begins at 3 p.m.
There will be a wine and cheese reception post-concert with a chance to meet and chat with Silverman.
About Robert Silverman
Robert Silverman is one of Canada’s most respected pianists, with a career spanning decades.
Born in Montreal, he has performed around the world, earning acclaim for his recordings, including complete sets of Beethoven and Mozart’s piano sonatas. Now in his 80s, Silverman is still active and has made significant contributions to Canadian music. He is a member of the Order of Canada and is known for his devotion to the works of Bach, having recorded the entire Well-Tempered Clavier twice.
His performance this March promises to be a highlight for music lovers.
Whether you are a long-time fan of Bach’s works or a newcomer to classical music, these concerts are a perfect opportunity to experience some of the world’s most profound and beautiful music. The March 22 concert offers a mix of choir, orchestra and solo piano, while the March 23 performance focuses on the intricacy of Bach’s keyboard music.
Do not miss these opportunities to hear one of Canada’s finest pianists perform Bach’s masterpieces in the intimate setting of ArtSpring.
Tickets are available now through the ArtSpring website or at the box office. Get tickets to both concerts and receive 10 per cent off the ticket price.