A mainstay in the heart of Bethlehem is the Bach Choir. Founded in 1898, the Bach Choir of Bethlehem is the oldest American Bach Choir, and one of the most renowned in the world. Thousands of people enjoy a variety of concerts hosted by the choir throughout the year, including their Christmas Concerts and Bach at Noon series.
The 100 dedicated volunteer singers are under the direction of Greg Funfgeld since 1883. The Choir has received critical acclaim for performances at the Thomaskirche in Leipzig, the Herkulessaal at Munich’s Royal Residence, The Kennedy Center in Washington, and Carnegie Hall in New York, and has been featured on National Public Radio’s Performance Today and Prairie Home Companion, Deutsche Radio, the BBC World Service, CBS Sunday Morning, and the Emmy award-winning PBS documentary on The Choir, Make a Joyful Noise.
But perhaps their most exciting event is the annual Bach Choir Festival. Held each May, this event spanning two weekends welcomes thousands to listeners to downtown Bethlehem. The festival blends a variety of concerts, lectures, talks, and dinners over the course of the weekend. Events take place throughout the city of Bethlehem including Lehigh University, Moravian College, the Moravian Museum, and others.
Take in the classic works of Bach at a traditional concert. Or, perhaps you prefer to enjoy the music set to dance featuring the Taylor 2 dance company. Enjoy intimate performances in small spaces to really hear the music soar. The program of the festival features some free events, as well as some ticketed.
Held the second and third weekends and May, the schedule typically remains identical for both sets of dates.
In 2016, the Bach Choir Festival of Bethlehem celebrates its 109th festival on May 13 - 15 and May 20 - 22. Details on schedules, tickets, and pricing can be found here.
Looking for a place to stay? Check out these hotels in the Bethlehem area.
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