Bach Talk

Episode 15: Going for Baroque with Ken Kulosa

Join us for an exciting conversation with The Bach Society of Saint Louis' Principal Cellist, Ken Kulosa! Bach Talk host Ron Klemm and Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger sit down with Ken as he shares his unexpected journey from aspiring doctor to cellist. Get a behind-the-scenes look at his experiences navigating the complexities of Bach’s music, the challenges of playing the viola da gamba and the passion that drives him.
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 14: My Only Comfort with Calvin R. Stapert

What makes up the "essential Bach?" Lifelong music educator, scholar and author Calvin R. Stapert joins host Ron Klemm to share his unique perspective on J.S. Bach’s unparalleled expressions of faith through music. The Bach Society of Saint Louis Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger adds to the conversation, as they explore Bach’s deep spiritual connection and how it shaped his compositions.
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 13: The Many Hats of Executive Director Melissa Payton

Melissa Payton’s journey with The Bach Society of Saint Louis began in 2004 as a Soprano Young Artist. Today, she serves as Executive Director and continues to sing in the Chorus as a Principal Singer. Join Bach Talk host Ron Klemm as they explore Melissa’s musical journey, her role within the organization and what makes The Bach Society so special.View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 12: Soaring Heights with Jay Carter

Bach Talk is back for Season 2! Get to know the vibrant community that keeps Bach's music alive, presented by The Bach Society of Saint Louis. Tune in monthly for new episodes featuring in-depth profiles and untold stories.What exactly is a countertenor? Join host Ron Klemm as he explores this unique voice type with one of the finest in the field, Kansas City-based Jay Carter. In this episode, Jay shares his experiences and the challenges of navigating the rarified air of countertenor singing, all while making it sound effortless. With co-host Scott MacDonald, they delve into the nuances of performing at such dizzying vocal heights, offering insights into the artistry and technical skill required.View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 11: Best Supporting Role with Sandra Geary

Sandra Geary might not crave the limelight, but her role as accompanist is critical to The Bach Society of Saint Louis. Originally from Cork, Ireland, she came to St. Louis to study at the Saint Louis Conservatory of Music and has been here ever since. Host Ron Klemm and Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger sat down with Sandra to hear all about her passion for music, her role as an educator and how she started playing piano. Plus, she shares some of her favorite memories from the last 30 years performing with The Bach Society of Saint Louis.View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 10: Other Duties as Assigned with Stephen Eros

Press play on the latest Bach Talk episode to meet Stephen Eros, Assistant Conductor of the Bach Society of Saint Louis.
In Episode 10, host Ron Klemm and Stephen chat through music, mentorship and teamwork. He shares his journey from growing up in Belleville, Illinois, to leading a professional choir and highlights the important role his family and mentors like A. Dennis Sparger have had on his career. Explore Stephen's passion for leading both a church choir and a professional ensemble and learn how he brings depth to music through meaningful text.
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 9: From the Front Row with Lenora-Marya Anop

A professor, musician and concertmaster all in one! Violinist Lenora-Marya Anop joins host Ron Klemm and Maestro A. Dennis Sparger to discuss the challenges and rewards of interpreting Bach's music and more. She shares the story of her musical journey, from her start with Suzuki lessons at age three to her most recent triumph at Carnegie Hall. In her role as Concertmaster with The Bach Society Orchestra for nearly 25 years, her passion for Bach's music continues to shine, and her joyful, collaborative spirit continues to bring musical magic to the stage.View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 8: Leipzig Life with David Gordon

Explore the intriguing world of Johann Sebastian Bach with this captivating Bach Talk episode featuring tenor, author, historian, and Bach expert David Gordon. Join host Ron Klemm as they uncover fascinating details about Bach's daily life in Leipzig, Germany during the 18th century. Gordon challenges misconceptions about Bach as a stern figure, highlighting his sense of humor, love of life and the importance of his family. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain a unique perspective on Bach's life and times.
 
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.Bach Talk is a Registered trademark of The Bach Society of Saint Louis.

Episode 7: The Ultimate Portrayal with Dr. Stephen Morscheck

Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Dr. Stephen Morscheck, a seasoned bass-baritone singer and professor of vocal studies. He’s returning to St. Louis to once again sing the role of “Jesus” in Bach’s St. John Passion. What goes into preparing for such a unique role? He shares insights into the intricate process of embodying characters like Jesus in Bach's compositions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the text, theology and musical nuances. He answers this and more during his conversation with host Ron Klemm.
 
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.

Episode 6: Rejoice Greatly! with Michele Kennedy

Join us as soprano Michele Kennedy shares her musical journey, the impact of her mentors and where she finds joy in her life. She's sharing her vision for a more inclusive approach to historic musical practices while celebrating underrepresented composers and artists. The episode also touches on Michele's experiences during the pandemic, revealing the positive aspects, new skills acquired and the joy she found in daily practice.Don't miss this enriching conversation with host Ron Klemm that captures the essence of Michele's joy in the arts.View the Bach Talk Show Notes here. Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.