Köthen BACH Academy
Academy workshop with Capella de la Torre and JAM in the anniversary year of the hymn writer Paul Gerhardt. Paul Gerhardt (1607–1676) is regarded as one of the most significant writers of sacred songs in the German-speaking world. His verses, often set to music by contemporaries such as Johann Crüger, continue to shape the sacred song repertoire to this day. The workshop will feature compositions by Gerhardt and his contemporaries, with polyphonic music alternating with Renaissance songs and dance movements.
At the end of the workshop, the participants, together with the professionals from Capella de la Torre and the young people from JAM, will present the pieces they have worked on in an open-air workshop concert in Köthen Castle Park on August 30, 2026.
The course repertoire includes music by Johann Crüger/Paul Gerhardt, Johann Walter, Giacomo Gastoldi, Josquin Desprez, Pierre de la Rue, and others. In addition to written music, the workshop will also focus on improvisation and the creative use of melodies, rhythms, and harmonies from the Renaissance and early Baroque periods.
The workshop is open to anyone interested in music—whether professionals, students, or amateurs. Prior experience is helpful but not required. Players of (historical) instruments and singers are invited. The course is also specifically aimed at players of modern instruments who wish to explore Renaissance music. The tuning pitch is 440 Hz mean tone.
The workshop is also for anyone who wants to get to know Capella de la Torre and JAM better. All (modern) instruments and voices are welcome—students who wish to specialize in Renaissance music are also encouraged to participate.