Our BachTalks invite you to go beyond the concert and into the music itself. These engaging presentations, led by Sonoma Bach's artistic and music directors, explore the stories, history, composers, and musical ideas behind an upcoming program. Whether you're new to early music or a longtime enthusiast, BachTalks offer fresh insights that deepen your listening experience and reveal the remarkable artistry behind every performance. Join us for lively conversation, fascinating discoveries, and a closer connection to the music you'll hear on stage.
Season Introduction with Amanda McFadden and Robert Worth
September 17 at 7 p.m.
Begin the season with Directors Robert Worth and Amanda McFadden as they introduce Sonoma Bach's 2026–27 concert series, Only Connect. Discover the musical themes that connect this year's programs, learn about the composers and repertoire you'll encounter, and gain insight into the artistic vision behind the season. Whether you're joining us for one concert or the entire series, this conversation offers the perfect introduction to the music and the journey ahead.
September 17 at 7 p.m.
Begin the season with Directors Robert Worth and Amanda McFadden as they introduce Sonoma Bach's 2026–27 concert series, Only Connect. Discover the musical themes that connect this year's programs, learn about the composers and repertoire you'll encounter, and gain insight into the artistic vision behind the season. Whether you're joining us for one concert or the entire series, this conversation offers the perfect introduction to the music and the journey ahead.
On Yoolis Night with Amanda McFadden
December 3 at 7 p.m.
Step into the rich musical traditions of the medieval Christmas season with Amanda McFadden as she explores the history, poetry, and performance of On Yoolis Night. This BachTalk offers an engaging look at the carols, customs, and cultural influences that shaped these timeless songs, illuminating the vibrant world from which this festive program emerges.
December 3 at 7 p.m.
Step into the rich musical traditions of the medieval Christmas season with Amanda McFadden as she explores the history, poetry, and performance of On Yoolis Night. This BachTalk offers an engaging look at the carols, customs, and cultural influences that shaped these timeless songs, illuminating the vibrant world from which this festive program emerges.
Bella Madre de’ Fiori with Amanda McFadden
February 25 at 7 p.m.
Celebrate the arrival of spring with Amanda McFadden as she explores the music and inspiration behind Bella Madre de' Fiori. Discover how composers from the Renaissance and Baroque captured the beauty of the natural world and how their influence blossomed in later works by composers such as Johannes Brahms and Charles Villiers Stanford. This BachTalk traces the enduring connections between nature, poetry, and music, offering a fresh perspective on a program alive with color, renewal, and song.
February 25 at 7 p.m.
Celebrate the arrival of spring with Amanda McFadden as she explores the music and inspiration behind Bella Madre de' Fiori. Discover how composers from the Renaissance and Baroque captured the beauty of the natural world and how their influence blossomed in later works by composers such as Johannes Brahms and Charles Villiers Stanford. This BachTalk traces the enduring connections between nature, poetry, and music, offering a fresh perspective on a program alive with color, renewal, and song.
Where Two or More are Gathered with Amanda McFadden
May 20 at 7 p.m.
Join Amanda McFadden for an inside look at a program celebrating the music of George Frideric Handel and Johann Sebastian Bach. Explore the rich traditions behind Handel's Chandos Anthems and Bach's cantatas, with special attention to the expressive role of the obbligato organ and the collaboration between choir, orchestra, and soloists. This BachTalk offers historical context and musical insights to enrich your experience of these joyful Baroque masterworks.
May 20 at 7 p.m.
Join Amanda McFadden for an inside look at a program celebrating the music of George Frideric Handel and Johann Sebastian Bach. Explore the rich traditions behind Handel's Chandos Anthems and Bach's cantatas, with special attention to the expressive role of the obbligato organ and the collaboration between choir, orchestra, and soloists. This BachTalk offers historical context and musical insights to enrich your experience of these joyful Baroque masterworks.