J. S. Bach: Tilge, Höchster, meine Sünden, BWV 1083

G.B. Pergolesi’s Stabat mater has been a musical favorite ever since the composer’s untimely death in 1736. In fact, it became the most frequently printed single work in the 18th century. Its spontaneous and fresh style reflects the new principles of an evolving ‘natural’ or ‘galant’ style which must have fascinated even J.S. Bach who arranged the piece for a performance in Leipzig. He underlaid a German text, and slightly expanded the orchestral material. As such we get to see the Neapolitan masterwork through Bach’s eyes.

As part of its inaugural season 2022/23 Harmonia Stellarum Houston featured soloists Renée Rybolt and Michael Skarke in a much-acclaimed performance of Pergolesi’s original. Building on that success we present Bach’s version with the same stellar group of performers.