About the Bach Society of Minnesota

The mission of the Bach Society of Minnesota is to build a community gathered to hear, perform, and promote the music of J.S. Bach. Working together we aim to encourage musicians, invigorate the audience, and build cooperation and partnerships with other community organizations.

Bach’s music has been described as a reflection of the harmony of the universe, and also, by extension, a model for a harmonious society. With this as our inspiration we intend to bring together all musicians (professional and amateur) to enjoy the marvelous music of J.S. Bach as well as integrate our work with the greater community by partnering with other charitable organizations whenever possible.

The Bach Society of Minnesota has served the Twin Cities community for the past 76 years, serving as the only performing arts organization focused first and foremost on the music and legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach and offering concert experiences that incorporate period instruments.

The Bach Society of Minnesota was formed in 1932 at the University of Minnesota when a group of students asked Professor Donald Ferguson to lead an organization that would give them the opportunity to sing Johann Sebastian Bach's music. After many years under Professor Ferguson’s direction, the Society was headed by Professor David La Berge, then Henry Charles Smith (former Associate Conductor of the Minnesota Orchestra), Paul Oakley in the 1990s, followed by Rod Kettlewell, Miles Hernandez, and Thomas Lancaster.

In August of 2007, after the retirement of Thomas Lancaster, Paul Boehnke was appointed to lead the Bach Society. With his many years of training and experience in early music (including playing keyboard for the BSM for the previous three years) Mr. Boehnke will continue the tradition of fine music making and community building around the inspiring music of J.S. Bach.

The Bach Society of Minnesota: music, beauty, community — come and be a part of something bigger.