On Whit Monday, June 9, 2025, at 4 p.m., the beautifully painted Dome Church of the English Convent (Carmersstraat, Bruges) provides the setting for the 22nd concert in the Early Music — Last Minute series. This edition is also the fifth Unique Event for a more peaceful world, a series that connects music with current social reflection.
A heartfelt musical ode to Bach
At 5 p.m., the internationally acclaimed Duo Tartini takes the stage, consisting of violinist prof. David Plantier (Switzerland) and cellist Annabelle Luis (France). Their programme abracada'bach presents virtuosic transcriptions for violin and cello of masterworks by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750) originally composed for keyboard. These transcriptions are not mere arrangements, but highly inspired reinterpretations, in which both musicians bring Bach's rich musical architecture — his "sound cathedrals" — to life in a surprisingly transparent and vivid manner.
The performance in Bruges follows the French premiere and will be exclusively recorded by the Dutch Concertzender. Plantier and Luis perform worldwide with renowned Baroque ensembles and have built an impressive recording catalogue together and individually. Some of their CDs have been awarded prestigious prizes such as the Diapason d'Or. Their dialogue on stage is intense, heartfelt and unmistakably inspired by Bach's universal power — music that offers comfort, light and peace across the boundaries of time, language and culture.
An inspiring prelude: Bart Stouten interviews Rik Van Cauwelaert
Before the concert, at 4 p.m. (until 4:40 p.m.), there is a unique opportunity for reflection and dialogue: Klara presenter and poet Bart Stouten converses with leading journalist and columnist Rik Van Cauwelaert. Their conversation, themed "Peace/War, Music ... and so much more", is coloured by the current social climate. Expect fireworks — in the spirit of Pentecost — in this engaging exchange of ideas.
Bart Stouten's new prose poem, De doden niet meer tellen (publisher P), will also be featured. The combination of poetry, social analysis and music promises a richly layered and heartfelt pre-programme that meaningfully precedes the concert. Access to the interview is free with presentation of a concert ticket.
Meet-and-greet and meet-and-eat
After the concert, there is an opportunity to meet the performers and speakers during a meet-and-greet. Those who wish to continue enjoying their company longer can sign up for the meet-and-eat at Restaurant 't Huidevettershuis. For this, please send an email to earlymusic@passionbeyondbach.com before June 3.
Practical information
- Date: Monday, June 9, 2025 (Whit Monday)
- Location: Dome Church of the English Convent, Carmersstraat, Bruges
- Interview starts: 4 p.m.
- Concert: 5 p.m.
- Tickets: https://www.ticketsbrugge.be/nl/events/kathedralen-van-klank-en-licht-doorgelicht-abracadabach
- Meet-and-eat reservation: earlymusic@passionbeyondbach.com