Saturday, November 14, 2025 at 3 p.m.
Sunday, November 15, 2025 at 3 p.m.

Bachgrounder lecture 35 minutes before each concert

Following our opening recital’s exploration of many of the foundational tales recounted in the Book of Genesis, Circa 1600 has the pleasure of turning forward in the Old Testament and stepping into the mystical garden of the Song of Songs. Filled with longing, sensuality, and memorable imagery, it’s no wonder that this sacred poetry inspired many composers to write such expressive music. We will explore motets by composers close to our heart including Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Tomás Luis de Victoria, and Jacobus Clemens non Papa as well as lesser-known gems, including the wonderful Missa Ego flos campi by Juan Gutiérrez de Padilla.

Circa 1600 is our mixed chamber choir, exploring the rich intersection of the Renaissance and Baroque eras. The group’s core repertoire spans the 16th and 17th centuries, with excursions back into the 15th century and forward to J.S. Bach. The ensemble’s artistic vision is shaped by the works of Josquin Desprez, Claudio Monteverdi, Heinrich Schütz and their contemporaries, bringing early music vividly to life.

Live Oak Baroque Orchestra (LOBO) is Sonoma Bach’s period-instrument ensemble, led by acclaimed Baroque violinists Elizabeth Blumenstock and Aaron Westman. LOBO combines sumptuous tone with breathtaking flair to perform repertoire from the 17th and 18th centuries. Experience Baroque music at its finest, passionately performed by some of the country’s most exceptional period instrumentalists.