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As we head into rehearsals for the opening of our season, I gingerly carry my well-worn and beloved score of the B Minor Mass everywhere I go. It sleeps under my pillow at night. Yes, so now you know that I'm obsessive. How can one not be obsessive, when one is about to conduct "the greatest work of art of all times and people?" - That statement is an example of many similar comments made by prominent 19th-century musicians and writers. What's amazing is that they understood the mastery of Bach's work, without ever having heard the piece. As far as we know, the B Minor Mass was not performed in its entirety until 1859 – 109 years after Bach's death. But everyone knew that the piece represented the pinnacle of Western musical culture. Beethoven, who had never heard the piece, made two attempts to acquire a score. This is our first time presenting this masterpiece on the Apollo's Fire stage. Yes, it is our 18th season. Yes, I waited 18 years. I wanted to be sure we could do it well - not only because the work is great, but because it meant so much to Bach personally. Scholars believe that he compiled the work near the end of his life, not for a performance, but as a personal statement and consecration of his life's purpose. As such, it is an astounding artistic and spiritual encounter, for the listeners as well as the performers. Next week, the trumpets and the timpani and voices unite, to praise the heavens as Bach cries, “Gloria!” I look forward to seeing you there, and sharing the communal experience of a great work of art. -Jeannette Sorrell |
"The Greatest Work of Art of All Times and All People"