Bach Akademie Australia Performs Bach’s Easter Oratorio
The Bach Akademie Australia’s Easter programme features counter-tenor Reginald Mobley’s astonishingly beautiful voice in Bach’s poignant cantata BWV 82 ‘Ich habe genug’ with the celebrated Australian baroque oboist Anna Starr. Cantata BWV 42 Am Abend aber desselbigen Sabbats follows with a message of hope and comfort. Then the highlight will be one of Bach’s best loved and most jubilant works, the Easter Oratorio first performed in 1725. Its message of pure joy and celebration continues to uplift and inspire us almost 300 years later.
Reginald Mobley is highly sought-after for baroque, classical and modern repertoire. Originally from Boston, his career started with the twice Grammy-nominated ensemble Seraphic Fire, after which a stellar rise led to appearances with the Academy of Ancient Music, Bach Collegium San Diego, Calgary Symphony, Monterverdi Choir and the English Baroque Soloists. He has appeared with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, at the Bachfest Leipzig, Festival Berlioz, Portland Bach and others. Never bound by conventional countertenor repertoire, and with a background in music theatre, Reggie has also performed cabaret shows of gospel, jazz and torch songs in venues from New York to Tokyo. He is vocal in the world of social activism, particularly in the area of inequality of race, gender and sexuality in the classical music industry.
Bach Akademie Australia is dedicated to performing the works of J.S. Bach and enriching and enhancing the musical life of Australia. It was established in late 2016 by Australian violinist Madeleine Easton – protégé of legendary British conductor Sir John Eliot Gardiner – who has recently returned after 19 years of living and working in Europe. Comprising some of the finest musicians and singers in Australia, the ensemble’s focus on mastery of performance, authenticity and originality of interpretation brings the music of J.S. Bach to life.
The performers: Bach Akademie Australia – Artistic Director Madeleine Easton, Reginald Mobley (US), countertenor
The programme: J.S. Bach Cantata BWV82 ‘Ich habe genug’/ J.S. Bach Cantata BWV42 ‘Am Abend aber desselbigen Sabbats’/ J.S. Bach Easter Oratorio BWV 249
Friday 3 April 7.30pm – The Garrison Church 60 Lower Fort St, The Rocks, Sydney/ Tickets: $70 – $90 (concessions available) Under 30s: $45
Sunday 5 April 2pm Holy Name Church, 35 Billyard Ave, Wahroonga/ Tickets: $55 – $75 (concessions available) Under 30s: $35
Bookings & information: www.bachakademieaustralia.com.au
Also Sat 4 April 7.30pm, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith – www.thejoan.com.au
