EXETER BACH SOCIETY

Patron: Peter Hurford Esq., OBE. DMus. FRCO
Hon President: Alderman Ramon Yeo

Registered Charity No. 1120011

The Exeter Bach Society was founded in 1995 by Alderman Ramon Yeo, an accomplished organist and admirer of Bach's many compositions. Since its formation the society has delved deep into Bach's repertiore, hosting numerous performances of his Cantatas, Lutheran masses and instrumental works. Recent choral performances have included Missa Brevis in F, the Christmas Oratorio, the St John and St Matthew Passions, and the famous Mass in B Minor. The choir has also taken tentative steps into the wider musical world, including Haydn's Harmoniemesse in our Spring 2012 concert, and Handel's Messiah in December. In recent years our major concerts have featured soloists from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, with Cantatas and recitals featuring local musicians and singers.

In addition to choral performances, the Bach Society organises instrumental recitals and talks throughout the season, which runs from September to early June. Our work with the St Peter's Singers (formerly the Cathedral Voluntary Choir) on Bach's Cantatas allows us to perform these at Exeter Cathedral, and we follow these evening services with events in the Cathedral Chapter House. Among recent highlights have been a recital by local soprano Elizabeth Drury, and a talk by David Davies on the pre-Reformation church music of John Sheppard.

Rehearsing the St John Passion at the Mint Church, Exeter: April 2009.

There are currently around 50 active members of EBS. We represent a range of musical ability and experience, ranging from accomplished sight-readers to those who have had few prior opportunities to perform this type of music. What we all share is a passion for Bach's music, an enthusiasm for performance, and a committee who ensure we have plenty of opportunity to do so.

If you are interested in joining EBS or would like to learn more, please have a look our joiners page or get in touch with Gill Manning for more information.