Bach Cantatas

Kristian Bezuidenhout directs Rachel Podger, Brecon Baroque and soloists for this year's opening concert of JS Bach's Cantatas in Brecon Cathedral. The programme explores three of the most virtuosic cantatas written for four voice parts.

Cantata BWV 198 is commonly known as the 'Ode of Mourning' and was written for the 1727 funeral of Queen Christiane Eberhardiune of Brandenburg-Bayreuth. Bleib bei uns, denn es will Abend werden (BWV 6) and Erfreut euch, ihr Herzen (BWV 66) are both Easter cantatas, written for the second day of Easter, most commonly known as Easter Monday.

Kristian Bezuidenhout has established himself as one of the most versatile and exciting musicians of our time, both as a keyboard player and conductor. He is a regular guest soloist on fortepiano, harpsichord and modern piano with the world's leading ensembles and has recorded over 30 albums, mostly with Harmonia Mundi. He collaborates with Rachel Podger regularly though this is his first visit to Brecon.

Programme:
JS Bach Cantata BWV 198 – Laß, Fürstin, laß noch einen Strahl
Cantata BWV 6 – Bleib bei uns, denn es will Abend werden
Cantata BWV 66 – Erfreut euch ihr Herzen

Performers:
Eleonore Cockerham soprano
Ciara Hendrick mezzo-soprano
Matthew Long tenor
Frederick Long bass-baritone
Rachel Podger violin (leader)
Brecon Baroque
Kristian Bezuidenhout director