The second part of this diptych is devoted to the cantatas performed in Leipzig between 1723 and 1726.

Bach composed an exceptional body of cantatas that can be described as funerary, particularly because their main theme is indeed death. The presence of flutes, instruments traditionally associated with funerals, gives these pieces a distinctive colour, especially in Cantata BWV 8, featuring an expressive solo flute, and in Cantata BWV 161, typical of the genre. The tragic intensity is the hallmark of Cantata BWV 27. Yet light and salvation are always at the believer’s journey’s end, brought by the soothing qualities of Cantata BWV 95.

John Eliot Gardiner, a great specialist in the cantor, embarked on an incredible Bach pilgrimage throughout Europe in 2000 : his masterful, humane and passionate interpretation was a landmark and continues to move audiences with its exceptional vision.

The concert is filmed by Camera Lucida and will be available in 2025 on France TV, CultureBox, and Live Opéra Royal.

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)

Liebster Gott, wenn werd ich sterben, BWV 8

Komm, du süsse Todesstunde, BWV 161

Intermission

Wer weiß, wie nahe mir mein Ende, BWV 27

Christus, der ist mein Leben, BWV 95

PRESTIGE VIP CATEGORY: Best seats in house, you will receive a complimentary programme and a glass of champagne.

PRESTIGE CATEGORY: Excellent seats, you will receive a complimentary programme and a glass of champagne.

REDUCED RATE: applicable to under 26s, Chateau de Versailles Spectacles card holders and groups of more than 10 people (excluding special company offer).

GROUP RATES: for more information, please refer to our page dedicated to works councils and groups.

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