The Weapons of Rhetoric Bach with Bite

Razor-sharp wit and stunning virtuosity are among The Weapons of Rhetoric to be employed by the Bach Akademie Australia in two concerts this June. The convivial Madeleine Easton, artistic director of the Akademie and acclaimed violinist, leads an ensemble of equally gifted musicians in a program of Bach delicacies. They will be joined on stage by whip-smart quippers, Jonathan Biggins and Jonathan Horton QC who will host the event while debating the virtues of rhetoric.

The concert title references a book by Judy Tarling also called The Weapons of Rhetoric, and explores the concepts proffered by Tarling:  “For centuries, musicians and orators have recognised and encouraged the use of accent and rhythm as essential for perfect communication. To ‘make music speak’ is the ultimate aim of both composers and performers alike.”

Easton and a troupe of extraordinary musicians including Neal Peres Da Costa, Laura Vaughan, Jenny Eriksson and Julia Fredersdorff, among others, will play a selection of Bach’s greatest hits in which they will demonstrate the persuasive, seductive effect of his use of light and shade. Meanwhile, Biggins and Horton will exchange intellectual barbs in a display of witty repartee.

The Bach works chosen for these concerts are a delight for the ear, heart, and mind.

“From his miraculous G minor Fuga for solo violin, showing how polyphonic music could be written on a monophonic instrument, to the 6-part Ricercar from his Musical Offering, ending with his much loved Double Violin Concerto, no other composer in history wielded the weapons of rhetoric with as much skill, grace and heart as J.S. Bach,” says Easton.

Sat 11 June 7pm*; tickets $30 – $90 + bf;  Verbrugghen Hall, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, 1 Conservatorium Rd, Sydney

* Also live-streamed on www.australiandigitalconcerthall.com

Sun 12 June 2.30pm; tickets $30 – $75 + bf;  Our Lady of Dolours Church, 94 Archer St, Chatswood

For more info and to book visit: www.bachakademieaustralia.com.au