Bethlehem, Pa. – Experience the breathtaking artistry and boundless energy of the world-renowned Thomanerchor, as they perform an unforgettable concert for the Bach Choir of Bethlehem’s Gala. This rare opportunity brings audiences face-to-face with the electrifying sound of one of the most celebrated boys’ choirs in history—just one night before their performance at the storied Carnegie Hall.
There is nothing quite like hearing the Thomanerchor live. These young voices bring an unparalleled intensity to every note, transforming centuries-old music into something immediate and deeply moving. Their a cappella program is a true vocal tour de force, featuring evocative works spanning the Baroque, Romantic, and contemporary eras.
“Welcoming the Thomanerchor to Bethlehem is an extraordinary honor for The Bach Choir and our community. Their music has a purity and passion that resonates in your soul—it’s something you don’t just hear; you feel it. When the Bach Choir visited Leipzig last summer and performed in Bach’s home church, we experienced firsthand the profound musical power of the Thomanerchor,” said Leela Breithaupt, Executive Director of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem.
“Now, having them join us in Bethlehem is a full-circle moment of musical and cultural connection. This concert is more than just a performance—it is a celebration of global friendship and community through the art of music, honoring Bach’s enduring legacy in a way that transcends borders and unites us all.”
Steeped in the traditions of Johann Sebastian Bach’s home church, the Thomanerchor’s young musicians eat, sleep, and breathe music, carrying forward a tradition of choral excellence that has stood the test of time. For over 800 years, the Thomanerchor has captivated audiences with their dynamic sound, their voices soaring with youthful brilliance. Founded in 1212 and based in Leipzig, Germany, the choir has a storied connection to Johann Sebastian Bach, who served as their cantor from 1723 to 1750. Today, they continue to bring his music to life with the same precision and expressive depth that he once demanded of his singers.
The annual Gala Concert and Fundraiser is a cornerstone event for The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, playing a pivotal role in sustaining our Youth Educational and Community Engagement programs. Proceeds from this event directly support initiatives such as Bach to School, which introduces nearly 5,000 elementary and middle school students annually to the enriching world of Bach’s music at no cost to the schools or students. Additionally, funds aid the Bach at Noon free concert series, offering monthly performances that cultivate a love for classical music within the community. The Bel Canto Youth Chorus also benefits, providing young choristers with exceptional training and performance opportunities. By participating in the Gala and Concert, attendees not only enjoy an evening of extraordinary music but also contribute to the nurturing of the next generation’s passion for the choral arts.
The Thomanerchor’s visit to Bethlehem is more than just a concert—it’s an opportunity to be swept away by the uplifting power of choral music. Whether you are a seasoned music lover or new to classical choral traditions, this evening promises to be an exhilarating and deeply moving experience. Tickets are $55 for adults and $9 for students and are on sale now at bach.org or by calling 610.866.4382 x110/115.
Join Us for The Bach Choir’s Gala Fundraiser Following the Concert
The evening continues with The Bach Choir’s Gala, held at 6:00 PM at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem. Benefactor tickets are available for $275 per person and include:
- Reserved premium concert seating
- Cocktail reception
- Gourmet dinner
- Silent auction
Each ticket includes a $100 charitable contribution that directly supports The Bach Choir’s Youth Education & Community Engagement programs.
Gala Benefactor tickets are available by phone only at 610-866-4382. Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music, history, and celebration as The Bach Choir of Bethlehem welcomes the legendary Thomanerchor for an evening unlike any other.
Event Details
What: Bach Choir of Bethlehem Gala Concert and Fundraiser
When: Concert – Saturday, March 8th at 4pm, doors at 3:30pm.
Tickets will be available for purchase at the door at Central Moravian Church the day of the performance.
Where: Central Moravian Church, 73 W. Church St., Bethlehem, PA 18018
ABOUT THE BACH CHOIR OF BETHLEHEM
Founded in 1898 and comprised of 115 dedicated volunteer singers, the Bach Choir of Bethlehem is the oldest American Bach Choir, performing the first complete U.S. renditions of Bach’s Mass in B Minor in 1900 and Christmas Oratorio in 1901. Under Artistic Director and Conductor Dr. Christopher Jackson, the choir attracts thousands each year to Bethlehem, PA for its annual Bethlehem Bach Festival. Programming includes over 40 concerts and educational events per year, reaching an audience of more than 22,000 through outreach programs like Bach to School, Bach at Noon, interdisciplinary family concerts, and more. The choir’s latest recording, Mendelssohn/Bach Matthäus-Passion (2024) was released by Analekta, Canada’s largest indie classic label. The Bach Choir’s Bel Canto Youth Chorus, an educational program under the direction of Director Kelly Rocchi, is training the next generation of choral singers and cultivating a life-long passion for the choral arts. For more information, visit BACH.org.
Information provided to TVL by:
Glenn Koehler
