Bath BachFest Delivers Joyous and Inspiring Music

Baroque music festival shines under new artistic direction

The 2026 Bath BachFest brought three days of vibrant Baroque music to the historic city of Bath, leaving audiences delighted and moved. Under new artistic director Adrian Brendel, the festival blended fresh young talent with seasoned performers in a programme praised for its emotional depth and musical quality.

The festival took place in several beautiful venues in Bath — including the Guildhall, a classic 18th-century concert space known for hosting cultural events.

New Direction at Bath BachFest

Adrian Brendel has taken over leadership of the festival after the passing of long-time director Amelia Freedman. His goal was to refresh the event while keeping the spirit of Johann Sebastian Bach’s music at the heart of the festival.

To achieve this, Brendel created a BachFest Ensemble, bringing together rising young musicians with experienced artists. The result was a blend of energy, skill, and shared passion that impressed festival audiences.

Highlights of the Festival Performances

The programme featured a range of Baroque works by Bach and other masters such as Handel, Purcell and Vivaldi. Here are some of the standout moments:

Handel’s Violin Sonata in D Major

• Performed by the talented violinist Stephen Waarts
• Audiences praised his pure tone and thoughtful phrasing.

Purcell and Bach Vocal Works

• American countertenor Reginald Mobley brought powerful emotion to songs by Purcell.
• Mobley also impressed in Bach’s “Ich Habe Genug”, a deeply expressive piece enhanced by oboist Nicholas Daniel’s elegant obbligato.

Handel’s Newly Discovered Oboe Concerto in C Minor

• Oboist Daniel delivered a stunning performance — both lyrical and virtuosic.

Well-Tempered Clavier Recital

• Pianist Anton Mejias offered a strong solo performance of preludes and fugues, showing technical command and feeling.

Grand Finale: String Trio Version of Goldberg Variations

The festival ended on a high note with a string trio arrangement of Bach’s famous Goldberg Variations, arranged by Dmitry Sitkovetsky.

• Adrian Brendel joined violinist Tim Crawford and violist Noga Shaham for this powerful performance.
• The playing captured the emotional range of the music — from serene to intense — and showcased the trio’s deep musical connection.

Festival critics and audience members called the finale mesmerising, noting how the arrangement maintained Bach’s genius while opening fresh expressive possibilities.

A Festival With Heart and Energy

What set this year’s BachFest apart was the sense of community and joy in the music-making. Young musicians and seasoned pros shared the stage with clear enthusiasm, and audiences responded with warm applause throughout the programme.

The festival also demonstrated how a classical music event can feel alive and contemporary while still honouring traditions from centuries past. The mix of expressive singing, brilliant instrumental solos, and thoughtful programming made a strong impression on festivalgoers.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Organisers have already announced that Bath BachFest will return from 25–27 February 2027, continuing the city’s tradition of celebrating Baroque music and inspiring new audiences.

Bath itself — with its historical architecture and vibrant arts scene — provides a fitting backdrop for these musical celebrations. Events like the BachFest and others in the area help make Bath a cultural hub in southern England, known for excellent music, theatre, and festivals.

Why This Festival Matters

Bath BachFest is more than a concert series. It:

• Highlights rich musical heritage connected to Bach and Baroque composers.
• Gives emerging artists a chance to perform alongside experienced musicians.
• Brings music lovers together in a city steeped in history and culture.

Whether you’re a classical music fan or new to Baroque repertoire, the festival offers a captivating way to experience some of the most expressive and timeless music ever written.

In Summary

The 2026 Bath BachFest was a joyous, energetic, and deeply musical celebration of Baroque music under new artistic leadership. From Handel’s sonatas to Bach’s Goldberg Variations, the festival delivered memorable performances that delighted audiences and set the stage for next year’s event.