NMPAS Cantata Series Launches on March 1, 2020

 

 

For several years, we have wanted to start a Bach Cantata Series. In fact, one of our founders, Chris Ihlefeld, had this in mind when we started NMPAS in 2012.

The new NMPAS Cantata Series consists of two programs on March 1 and May 3. These concerts differ from other NMPAS series events in several respects:

– They are designed to last for an hour or less and take place without intermission. Tickets are just $25. Reserved seating is available for an extra fee on a first-come, first-served basis.

– Each concert features a Bach cantata and another work by Bach or one of his contemporaries.

– Cantata programs are designed as chamber music experiences with small vocal and instrumental ensembles.

The inaugural program on March 1, 2020 at 5:30 pm in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel features a cantata that Artistic Director Franz Vote considers extraordinary. Cantata 30, “Rejoice, redeemed flock!,” is a masterpiece that exceeds performers’ expectations. We hope that listeners will also be inspired by this music, which goes from one great chorus, recitative, and aria to another.

Featured soloists for Cantata 30 are soprano Camille Tierney, alto Jacqueline Zander-Wall, tenor Tjett Gerdom, and bass Paul Bower. They are joined by oboist Kevin Vigneau, flutist Linda Marianiello, and pianist Natasha Stojanovska.

Metropolitan Opera conductor emeritus Franz Vote leads the ensemble. Among Maestro Vote’s credits are Music Director of the Seattle [Wagner] RING (2000-2001), numerous performances on the podium of the Metropolitan Opera, including the premiere of “Tales of Hoffman” (1995-2001), international appearances throughout all of Western Europe, and opera gala performances in Japan and China.