In a one-hour online lecture Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m., Dr. Gil Harel will explore the history of Bach’s Eastertide masterpiece, the Johannes-Passion of 1724.
— an announcement from Darien Library
Johann Sebastian Bach never wrote an opera. Indeed, for a provincial composer of church music in Lutheran Germany, such a project was not in the cards.
However, Bach showed himself to be a profoundly skilled musical storyteller, and there is perhaps no greater example of this than his towering Passion oratorios.
In this work, the composer draws on his prodigious skills to convey the story of the Passion through music. With arias, recitatives, choruses and the like, this oratorio has much in common with contemporary operas of the period.
However, it is a work that was composed for an entirely different purpose. As we listen, we must recall that Bach wrote it not for an audience, but rather, for a congregation.
About the Presenter
Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from western classical repertoire to jazz.
Previously, he has served on the faculty at CUNY Baruch College, where he was awarded the prestigious “Presidential Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching,” as well as the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics in Chengdu, China.
Currently, he teaches at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he was presented with the “Merit Award for Exemplary Service to the College.”
At NVCC, Dr. Harel conducts the college chorale, a cappella ensemble, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions. Outside of teaching, he enjoys staying active as a pianist and vocalist.
If You’re Going …
Need help registering? Email Adult Programming at apstaff@darienlibrary.org.
This event will take place on Zoom. You will receive an email confirming your registration with a link to join the meeting after you register for the event.