Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 3 p.m.
Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 3 p.m.

Bachgrounder lecture 35 minutes before each performance

Finally, as previously mentioned, we’ll step across a line we’ve rarely crossed: Circa 1600 will go spelunking through the 20th century and into the 21st. We’ll touch upon the rich chanson repertoire of the great impressionist composers Debussy and Ravel; we’ll explore Paul Hindemith’s grim madrigals and touching chansons; we’ll do a deep dive into Benjamin Britten, including his great Rejoice in the Lamb, with organ accompaniment and with lyrics by the eccentric Christopher Smart. Samuel Barber will make an appearance, as well as a number of living composers. And—wait for it!—a bit of jazz just might be heard as we usher out our season in style!