Reflect with Bach

Poet, writer, theatre maker, journalist and podcast maker Marjolijn van Heemstra talks about the theme of compassion. The music is played by our Young Bach Fellows.

Philosopher, lawyer and writer Jurriën Hamer reflects on the theme of power. His story is interwoven with parts of three cantatas by Bach that form the base for his Mass in B Minor.

Professor of History of International Relations Beatrice de Graaf reflects on the theme of crisis. Her story is interwoven with music by Bach, led by gambist Mieneke van der Velden.

Writer Abdelkader Benali explores the universal themes of life and offers tranquillity. The common thread is Bach's cantata Tilge, Höchster, meine Sünden, BWV 1083, an arrangement of Pergolesi's Stabat Mater.

Eva Meijer is a philosopher, artist, writer, and singer-songwriter. Recurring themes in her work are language including silence, madness, animals, and politics.

Stine Jensen addresses farewell and various facets of death in this reflection concert. Bach's motets add additional comfort.

What is love? What does love sound like? Poetess Maud Vanhauwaert and publicist and podcast maker Corine Koole dwell on a festive wedding cantata and a cantata about friendship and parting.

How can you stay true to your own values in a time when solidarity is coming under increasing pressure? Essayist and poet Marjoleine de Vos reflects on this question, which was also a topical theme in Bach’s day.

Bach is sometimes referred to as the great comforter. A typical Bach theme is: hand over your cares and concerns, and trust that all will be well. But how do you do that if you don’t believe in divine powers? Maxim Februari looks for answers.