In the heart of Little Rock, Arkansas, a unique musical journey unfolds within a 140-year-old cathedral. At Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Colin MacKnight, the organist, is embarking on an ambitious project that honors the legendary Johann Sebastian Bach. This year, as part of a global commemoration marking the 275th anniversary of Bach's death, MacKnight plans to play all of the composer’s organ works across 18 hours, broken into half-hour segments held every Wednesday during lunch breaks.
The series of concerts started off with a captivating view: the majestic Gothic architecture paired with the resonant notes of Bach, emanating from the cathedral's grand pipe organ. Enthusiastic audiences gathered, not for worship, but to bask in the music that has been revered for centuries. The concerts are not only a tribute to Bach but also a personal achievement for MacKnight, who has been captivated by Bach since childhood.
To immerse himself in Bach’s genius, MacKnight, who grew up in Bethesda, Maryland, and has been the music director at Trinity for three years, reminisced about the first time he encountered Bach's music—it was at a family funeral when he was 12. That moment sparked a lifelong passion. Now, at 31, MacKnight's expertise flows through his fingers as they navigate through the four keyboards and a multitude of controls that bring the organ to life.
These concerts are crafted not only for seasoned classical music enthusiasts but also for newcomers. They serve as both a musical escape and an educational experience, complete with explanations of musical terms and background stories about the compositions. MacKnight's performances are a testament to the complexity of Bach’s works, often described as more challenging to perform than they sound.
Bach remains a cornerstone in the world of classical music, particularly for his intricate organ compositions. Few undertake the daunting task of playing his entire repertoire, given its difficulty and vastness. MacKnight's former instructor at the Juilliard School, Grammy-winning organist Paul Jacobs, famously performed an 18-hour nonstop Bach concert in 2000.
Beyond the music, these events foster community spirit and offer a serene lunchtime refuge from the everyday hustle. Attendances have included churchgoers, classical music lovers, and casual listeners. They have all found solace in the power of the organ and the depth of Bach’s compositions. Attendee Barry Coplin, a church member, expressed his admiration for the complexity and transformative power of the performances.
Meanwhile, classical music aficionado Ben Wiley appreciates the segmented format, allowing him to savor Bach’s masterpieces at a comfortable pace. This gradual engagement means returning regularly, building on one’s appreciation and understanding of the music.
In addition to the weekly performances, a special concert is scheduled for July 28, featuring the Clavier-Ubung III—Bach’s comprehensive organ work, sometimes called the German Organ Mass. This performance will coincide with the exact date of Bach’s passing in 1750, a touching tribute to the composer.
For Trinity, these concerts offer more than music; they create a shared experience that brings people together. As Rev. Thomas Alexander of Trinity reflected, this journey through Bach's oeuvre is akin to reading an author's complete works, allowing for deeper connection and insight into his artistic vision. And in doing so, they not only celebrate Bach but also strengthen the community's bonds.
