Are you yearning for that unforgettable date idea that will sweep your partner off their feet and leave an indelible mark on your hearts? Look no further than Early Music Vancouver’s enchanting concert, Bach Ties the Knot, set to light up the night on February 15, 2025, at the breathtaking St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church. Let yourselves be enveloped in the exquisite beauty of J.S. Bach’s wedding-inspired masterpieces, where each note reverberates with the profound essence of love and connection. This is more than just a musical experience; it’s a passionate celebration of love and unity, a chance to delve deep into the intricate emotions that Bach so masterfully portrays. Don’t miss this chance to create a night that will forever echo in your memories!
As part of EMV’s magnificent 2025 LUMEN Festival, prepare yourself for an enchanting performance that promises to resonate deep within your soul. We are graced by the presence of the extraordinary German soprano Dorothee Mields, a true luminary of our time—her voice described as “one of the finest, most genteel” to grace the stage. If you’ve yet to experience the magic of her singing, brace yourself for an unforgettable journey. Her interpretations, filled with raw emotion and her unique timbre, breathe life into every note, creating a deeply moving tapestry that will captivate both passionate classical music devotees and newcomers alike. Joining this remarkable artist is the brilliant Pacific Baroque Orchestra, under the masterful direction of Alexander Weimann. Together, they will conjure an evening that transcends mere performance—an experience that will linger in your heart long after the final note has faded.
What makes this concert even more special is its personal connection to Bach’s own life. The program includes the beloved Cantata BWV 202 “Weichet nur,” which scholars believe may have been composed for Bach’s wedding to Anna Magdalena. Adding to the excitement is the world premiere of Mields’ own Fictive Wedding Cantata, O großes Hochzeitsfest!, an extraordinary creation inspired by Bach’s technique of Parodie. This newly crafted work weaves together Bach’s sinfonias, recitatives, arias, and chorales to expand on the limited number of solo soprano cantatas, while spotlighting some of his lesser-known gems.
Dorothee Mields’ connection to Vancouver audiences runs deep. Her spellbinding performances of Bach Cantatas during the 2019/20 season left concertgoers mesmerized, and her return is highly anticipated. With a career spanning collaborations with some of the world’s most prestigious ensembles and conductors, Mields brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of 17th- and 18th-century music to the stage. Her artistry is sure to make this performance an emotional and uplifting experience.
If you’re looking for an excuse to dress up and enjoy a sophisticated night out without the kids, this is it. Arrive early for the 2:30 PM pre-concert chat, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into the music from Mields and Alexander Weimann, hosted by EMV’s Artistic and Executive Director Suzie LeBlanc. It’s the perfect opportunity to deepen your appreciation of the program while sipping a coffee and soaking in the ambiance of St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church.
Bach Ties the Knot is just one of three captivating concerts featured in the LUMEN Festival, which runs from February 14–16, 2025. Make it a weekend to remember by catching Draw on Sweet Night with UK ensemble VOCES8 on February 14 or exploring the rich musical heritage of Huehuetenango: Music from 16th Century Guatemala on February 16, featuring tenor Jonatan Alvarado and vihuelist Ariel Abramovich.
Indulge yourselves in an enchanting evening of elegance and romance, where the breathtaking beauty of Bach will sweep you off your feet. This is more than just a date night; it’s an opportunity to create unforgettable memories together. Immerse yourselves in the magic of music that speaks to the soul. Don’t wait—explore tickets and details at earlymusic.bc.ca. You both deserve this exquisite experience, and believe us, your partner will cherish every moment!