The Program

Queens University of Charlotte’s Royal Voices, guest ensemble
Prof. Justin Smith, DMA, Director

Scott Allen Jarrett presenting

  Johann Sebastian BACH Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit (“Actus Tragicus”), BWV 106

“The Actus Tragicus belongs to the great musical literature of the world. Here, in one stroke, the twenty-two-year-old composer left all his contemporaries behind him.” (Alfred Dürr)

Written early in his career, and scored for voices, two recorders, two violas da gamba, and continuo, this delicate 23-minute funeral cantata alone would have secured Bach’s immortal place in music history. Even before the voices enter, the instrumental sinfonia consoles, comforts, and uplifts. Bach understood that death makes us mortal, facing death makes us human, and that faith gives us the courage to reach heavenward to the life everlasting, reconciled by grace. Here, as the soul journeys to Paradise, Bach transforms fragility and the crippling fear of doubt to affirmation, courage, and the freeing hope of God’s peace.

The Bach Experience is the Festival’s signature education series where Bach’s works are studied, explained, explored, and performed. Artistic Director Scott Allen Jarrett guides each session sharing insights through conversations with musicians and musical demonstrations before a full performance of each segment. No musical experience is required and all are welcome.

You know you’ve always liked Bach’s music – come and learn why! Bring your score, bring a friend, chat with our musicians, and Bach will take care of the rest.