J.S. Bach and Parables of Fortune and Farewell

In advance of the Bach Cantata concert in Duke Chapel at 5:00 p.m. today, Interim Chapel Organist Chad Fothergill gives this talk on ways in which Bach's approach to writing for more intimate ensembles is just as inspired and profound as his composition of masses and oratorios.

The three cantatas featured in the concert invite contemplation of life situations and transitory moments: gestures of vocal and instrumental soloists "look" away from a weary world toward the peace of heaven; a protagonist (singing in Italian) bids farewell to a traveling friend; and a singer, inspired by a biblical parable about a day's wages, contemplates life's fortune and station. Seats at the concert in Duke Chapel will be reserved for people attending this talk.