BACH. PÄRT. PENDERECKI

In the August of 2026, admirers of symphonic and organ music are once again invited to enjoy the concert series SUMMER CLASSICS, presented by Orchestra “Rīga” in one of the most distinctive churches of Riga Old Town – St. John’s Church, Riga, a unique medieval landmark dating back to the 13th century, combining late Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements and is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and exceptionally warm acoustics, making it a compelling venue for organ and wind music.

This program highlights the distinctive musical languages of outstanding composers from different eras, bringing together the masterworks of the Baroque genius Johann Sebastian Bach with the ascetic intensity and meditative depth of Arvo Pärt and the powerful, often sonically dramatic sacred expression of Krzysztof Penderecki.

The concert traces a dramaturgical journey from the monumental architectural forms of the Baroque to the spiritual introspection of contemporary music, illuminating the evolution of classical expression across centuries – from intricate polyphony to the concentrated, often contemplative language of modern composition.

PARTICIPANTS

Orchestra RIGA
Organist Ilze Reine
Conductor Valdis Butāns

PROGRAM

Johann Sebastian Bach – Prelude and Fugue in E-flat major (“St Anne”), BWV 552 (arr. Donald Hunsberger) ; Prelude and Fugue in E minor, BWV 548
Krzysztof Penderecki – Entrata for brass and timpani ;  Agnus Dei from “Polish Requiem” (arr. Oskar G. Blarr) for Organ
Arvo Pärt – Fratres (arr. B. Briner) ; Spiegel im Spiegel

The opening concert of the series “BACH. PÄRT. PENDERECKI” will take place on 11 August at 7PM in St. John’s Church, Riga. Riga visitors are warmly invited to experience the rich sonority of a symphonic wind orchestra under the direction of Valdis Butāns, with Ilze Reine at the organ.

Tickets are available at “Biļešu paradīze” box offices and online, as well as at St. John’s Church, Riga, one hour prior to the concert.