A short term course on the sacred repertoire of J.S. Bach offered at Regent College, May 22-26,
2023.
As part of its upcoming Summer Program, Regent College is offering a one-week course under
the title, “The Fifth Evangelist: The Sacred Repertoire of J.S. Bach.” The course will be taught
onsite at Regent College (5800 University Blvd., corner of University Blvd and Wesbrook Mall on
the UBC campus), Monday to Friday, May 22-26, 8:30 to 11:30 am. It will also be accessible
online.
On May 22, 1723, J.S. Bach moved to Leipzig to take up a posting as director of music at St. Thomas Church, beginning 27 years of vigorous musical output in that city. Over that time, Bach composed, performed, and directed some of the most famous sacred music in the western tradition. Through it all, the signature on his manuscripts—SDG, or Soli Deo Gloria—spoke loudly of his life’s calling and the purpose of his musical output.
Join us as we explore and honour Bach’s incalculable legacy and enduring impact on church music, both choral and instrumental. Enter into the profoundly moving St. John Passion, the incomparable Mass in B Minor, as well as some of his best-known preludes and cantatas. Consider the character of this remarkable man throughout his career whose faithful service and unparalleled skill have drawn countless believers into contemplation of the glory of God.
Participating lecturers are J. Evan Kreider (Professor Emeritus, Musicology, UBC), Dietrich Bartel
(Emeritus Professor of Music, Canadian Mennonite University, Winnipeg), Edward Norman
(professional organist and recitalist), as well as Regent College Professor, Sven Soderlund
(coordinator).
Edward Norman’s organ recital/lecture will be held at Kerrisdale Presbyterian
Church (2733 W. 41st Ave.) on Wednesday morning, May 24.
The course is offered both for Master level credit (1 or 2 credit hour) or audit status. Credit
tuition rate is $520 per credit hour, onsite ($540/cr hr online) plus $35 registration fee. Audit
tuition is $385 onsite and $405 online, plus $35 registration fee.
More information on course content, including a course syllabus, can be obtained from the
Regent College website, regent-college.edu.