This collection of 21 chorale arrangements of hymns from the Lutheran Mass is known today as the "Organ Mass". It shows all of Bach's experience, wealth of ideas and variety of forms in the treatment of hymn melodies. The cycle also contains four "duets", extended, imaginative two-part inventions and, as a framework, a prelude and fugue in E flat major, a musical celebration of the triune God crowned with the concluding triple fugue. "For lovers and especially for connoisseurs of this kind of work, made by J. S. Bach for the enjoyment of the mind" – this is the title page of the work published in 1739, which uniquely combines the virtuoso mastery of the instrument, the theological depth of thought, the polyphonic art and the composer's sensual joy of sound.
The internationally renowned Bach interpreter Prof. Martin Sander will perform the work on the large Beckerath organ in St Ludwig's, which is ideally suited to the task.
