A Celebration of Bach’s Most Daring Works
Seraphic Fire’s November concert weekend brought audiences across Naples, Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, and Boca Raton into the heart of Bach’s greatest choral achievements. The complete cycle of the six Bach Motets is rarely presented as a full set. This was only the third time in Seraphic Fire's 23 year history that we programmed all six together. The result was a weekend of powerful music making that listeners described as unforgettable.
The motets demand precision, stamina, and a deep sense of ensemble unity. Each score is filled with emotional and technical variety. Some movements burst with celebration. Others sit in quiet reflection. Performing them as a full set created a natural arc that showcased the depth of Bach’s writing and the skill of the Seraphic Fire artists.
A Performance That Drew High Praise
Critic Lawrence Budmen from the South Florida Classical Review attended the Coral Gables performance and called it “glorious.” He praised Patrick Quigley for delivering his finest reading of the motets yet. With a full choir of 20 voices supported by strings and harpsichord, the sound filled St. Philip’s Episcopal Church with warmth and clarity. Budmen highlighted the “vibrant corporate sonority” of the ensemble and the careful attention to phrasing, color, and dynamic contrast.
Individual moments stood out throughout the evening. “Lobet den Herrn” opened the program with radiant energy. The intricate counterpoint in “Singet dem Herrn” was described as “pitch perfect.” The quartet of Rebecca Myers, Gabriela Estephanie Solis, James Reese, and John Buffett received special recognition, and Myers was praised for her “angelic top range.” “Jesu, meine Freude” brought an especially joyful moment when Quigley stepped aside and let the singers carry the music with confidence and unity.
Budmen also recognized the fine work of the period orchestra. Edson Scheid de Andrade and Katie Hyun on violins, Kyle Miller on viola, Sarah Stone on cello, Nathaniel Chase on bass, and Aya Hamada on harpsichord brought energy and color to the entire cycle.
Honoring Mel VanderBrug in Naples
The Naples performance on November 13th held special meaning for the ensemble. The evening was dedicated to longtime board member Mel VanderBrug, whose passing earlier this year was felt deeply throughout the Seraphic Fire family. Mel championed our presence in Naples for many years and helped build the loyal community we have today. His generosity, kindness, and belief in our mission shaped the organization in lasting ways. You can watch the memorial service, which featured a performance by Seraphic Fire, here.
Looking Ahead to Christmas with Dr. James K. Bass
If you were unable to attend the Bach Motets weekend, you still have an opportunity to hear Seraphic Fire at its best. Our Christmas concerts return this December, led by our Artistic Director Designate, Dr. James K. Bass. These performances are a beloved tradition in South Florida and remain our most popular concerts of the year. They feature candlelit carols, familiar melodies, and the unmistakable sound of Seraphic Fire in the holiday season.
Tickets and subscriptions are available now at SeraphicFire.org/tickets or by calling 305.285.9060. We encourage you to reserve early, as Christmas concerts fill quickly in every city we visit.
