Bach for You

Bach wrote some of the most sublime music, but that doesn't mean you should only observe it from a distance, on a pedestal. Here are some opportunities for self reflection and personal connection through the music of our favorite composer and those he inspired.

Musical Sanctuary

pop-up sessions throughout the performance season

Throughout the season, you can find a single musician in the sanctuary playing solo works by Bach and other composers. Think of this as a moment just for you. Take a seat, and let the musician set the tone while you take a break from your day and recharge. Let your mind wander, breathe with intention, do some simple stretches…whatever you need to destress. Drop in for a few minutes, or settle in for longer. In colder months you might find some hot beverages to enjoy while you listen. Feel free to bring a book, your knitting needles, or another project that helps you relax.

Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter to learn which weeks you can find a musician in the sanctuary.

Breathe with Bach

Boston Public Library Neighborhood Branches

Breathe with Bach takes our Musical Sanctuary initiative out into the community, partnering with various neighborhood branches of the Boston Public Library.

By creating regular and accessible opportunities to experience live musicianship, we aim to join in efforts to support the wellbeing of adults in our community, especially those adults who need the respite, the feeling of connection, or who are otherwise unlikely to be able to access the benefits of live music.

Lower Mills Branch (Dorchester)

Fridays 11.00am-12.00pm
October 6, 13, 20, 27; November 3, 2023

Adams Street Branch (Dorchester)

Saturdays 10.00-11.00am
October 21, 28; November 4, 11, 18, 2023
April 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 2024

East Boston Branch

Mondays 12.30-1.30pm
September 11, 18, 25; October 2, 9, 2023
March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1, 2024

Jamaica Plain Branch

Monthly on Mondays, 4:30-5:30pm
September 18; October 16, November 13, December 11, 2023
January 22; February 12; March 11; April 22; May 20, 2024

Coloring Bach

We have commissioned our second coloring book, which will be published soon! Artists have created images to accompany ten cantatas on the schedule this season. Each artist listened to their assigned cantata for inspiration and then created a drawing for you to color while you listen to the same cantata.

View 2022-23 Coloring Bach

Musical Conversations

We are continuing to offer this initiative we started in the Spring of 2020 as a way to nurture human connection through music even when we can't be together in the same room. Sit down with one of our musicians on Zoom for a short (about 30 minutes) intimate, informal conversation. They'll bring their instrument and play some music that is meaningful to them. Together you'll discuss whatever it brings up for you.

A Musical Conversation can be a great gift for yourself, a loved one, or a small group of family and friends. Our musicians have also found these interactions to be powerful and poignant

To learn more or schedule a conversation, please email our Director of Engagement, Megan Bisceglia.

Learn & Engage
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Bach for You