Bach's music is often referred to as eternal, and at times – cosmic. It is symbolic that in 1977, three of his works were included on the "Golden Record" of NASA's Voyager spacecraft – Bach's music literally went into space.
Few composers in history have been honored as much as Johann Sebastian Bach. His music possesses a rare quality – it does not seem to belong to a specific era. Its clarity, harmony, and inner energy are perceived as remarkably modern, regardless of time and context. The central instrument in this musical world remains the organ – an instrument where the scale of sound combines with utmost expressiveness.
On March 6 and 7 in Riga, selected works by the composer will be performed by one of Latvia's leading organists – Ilona Birgеле. A graduate of the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music, the chief organist of the Riga Catholic Cathedral, and the founder and director of the festival "Latvia – the Land of Organs," Ilona Birgеле is known for her delicate style and special attention to the character of the instrument.
The concerts will also feature Irina Vylegzhanina (cello) and Virginia Laube-Vitina (percussion).
The evenings will take place in St. Paul's Church – under neo-Gothic vaults, on the historic organ E. F. Walcker & Co. The space, light, and visual projections delicately complement the music, creating an atmosphere in which Bach's works gain additional depth and scale.
