Concerts@First - Bach Birthday Philadelphia
Join us for Bach Birthday Philadelphia, an immersive celebration of Johann Sebastian Bach featuring acclaimed performers and historic instruments. The afternoon showcases organ masterworks, chamber music for traverso and harpsichord, and culminates with a complete performance of the Goldberg Variations.
Performed on the 1783 Eben Organ, our large sanctuary organ, and period instruments, this event offers a rare opportunity to hear Bach’s music as it was meant to sound—rich, expressive, and deeply human.
One of the highlights of this year’s Bach birthday celebration is one of the very first performances in Philadelphia of two recently discovered works by Johann Sebastian Bach: the Chaconne and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 1178, and the Chaconne in G Minor, BWV 1179. These remarkable pieces will be performed by Bálint Karosi, 1st prize winner of the 2008 J. S. Bach Competition in Leipzig.
Tickets are $20 for the entire afternoon; you may come and go for any portion of the program. Click below for the complete schedule and to purchase tickets.
On-street parking is available with placard.
Cantata BWV 150 (free admission)
Sunday, March 22, 2026 – 11:00 AM Worship Service
Cantata BWV 150 Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich
Performed by the First Presbyterian Choir & Period Orchestra
Conducted by Bálint Karosi
