Led by our own Bob Seay, we will listen to the opening chorale of Johann Sebastian Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, accompanied by commentary from Leonard Bernstein. Together, we’ll explore its structure and consider why it is particularly well suited for performance in a large church setting.

Johann Sebastian Bach first performed his monumental St. Matthew Passion at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, Germany, likely on Good Friday in 1727 or 1729. Bach wrote this masterpiece for two choirs and orchestras, specifically for the Vespers service at this church.

Learn more at 10 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026. All are welcome.

• At the Chapel in the Pines, 220 Samoset Road in Eastham.  Doors open at 9:30.