The Sanctuary Series Celebrates Bach’s Birthday

The Sanctuary Series, dedicated to presenting extraordinary musical performances in the heart of the historic hamlet of South Salem, begins the spring portion of its season with an afternoon of exuberant chamber music in honor of Johann Sebastian Bach’s birthday, featuring the composer’s music performed by cellist Alexis Pia Gerlach with Series co-artistic director, Anthony Newman on piano. Mr. Newman will also perform solo on organ and piano and join his wife, Series co-artistic director Mary Jane Newman, to explore the intricacies of Bach with two pieces transcribed for piano four hands. The performance will be in the Sanctuary of the South Salem Presbyterian Church at 4 PM.

Labeled the "High Priest" of Bach by Wynton Marsalis, Anthony Newman is considered America's leading Bach specialist and is a world-renowned keyboardist. His recordings of Bach on the harpsichord have re-defined how the composer is interpreted today. Cellist Alexis Pia Gerlach’s playing has been lauded in the press for its “gripping emotion” and “powerful artistry” — qualities which have defined a career striking for its wide range of collaborations and artistic expressions, with performances across the United States and in 15 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Mary Jane Newman is herself an accomplished keyboardist and the founder of the Series with the late Rev. Chip Andrus as a means of community outreach, a commitment that continues to this day.

South Salem Presbyterian Church is at 111 Spring Street, South Salem, NY. Advanced tickets are $25 for general admission, $40 for preferred seating and $10 for students when purchased in advance on the Series website www.thesanctuaryseries.org ($30/$50/$15 at the door). All concerts are followed by an artist reception. Call 914-763-5402 or email info@sanctuaryseries.org for more information.

• Suite No. 5 in c minor for Solo Cello, BWV 1011
• Fantasy (organ) and Fugue in g minor for Piano 4 Hands, BWV 542
• Prelude and Fugue in G major for Piano 4 Hands, BWV 541
• Chromatic Fantasy and Fugue in d minor for solo keyboard, BWV 903
• Viola da Gamba Sonata No. 1 in G major, BWV 1027