Oxford Bach Soloists
The Oxford Bach Soloists (OBS) is a Baroque ensemble whose ambition is to perform, in sequence, the complete canon of J. S. Bach’s vocal works over 12 years. Founded by Tom Hammond-Davies (Artistic Director) in 2015, OBS offers a unique musical experience that converges composer, performer, and audience.
OBS’s mission is distinctive and pioneering: while there have been many recordings and performances of the complete vocal works of J. S. Bach, no ensemble has ever mounted a cycle of performances in chronological order, programmed in real-time, and in the context for which they were conceived. OBS has set out to perform Bach’s works as he himself would have realised them with performers, instruments, and venues that echo the university and churches of Bach’s hometown of Leipzig.
Community
Bach’s music is community music. He was famously networked amongst an extended family of musicians in northern Germany. Today, OBS champions local students, scholars, players, soloists, and amateurs in performances that mirror the diversity of our community.
Commitment to education
OBS is creating long-term sustainable relationships with state-supported schools to improve numeracy and literacy skills. With the help of regular interventions, they empower educators to use music as a transformative teaching tool.
Choral scholarships
OBS provides the next generation of young aspiring singers with the opportunity to develop their solo singing within the musical programme of the Oxford Bach Soloists. Funded by the generosity of donors and foundations, 12 competitively appointed Choral Scholars develop their skills by taking on step-out solos during our concerts and receiving professional German language coaching. They transfer their learning experience to the rest of the chorus by making up its core and contributing to its musical integrity.
The Oxford Bach Soloists are kindly hosted by the kind permission of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford, and their performances take place in the New College Chapel. Access to the College is usually via the main Porter’s Lodge on Holywell Street or via the Old Lodge on New College Lane. The chapel has disabled access and facilities. If you require assistance on the day, please speak to our front of house staff.
