London Bach Society announces Study Day for singers

Soprano and Bach specialist Julia Doyle sitting on steps in red dress and black top. Photo by Louise O'Dwyer
By Continuo Connect | Published 13 October 2025

As part of its forthcoming 2025 Bachfest, the London Bach Society (LBS) has announced a special Bach Study Day on Saturday, 15 November 2025 at the Voces8 Centre in London. Under the title ‘What Makes Singing Bach Different?’, the day offers performers and audiences an opportunity to delve into the interpretative and stylistic demands of Bach’s vocal music.

The Study Day is especially geared towards those who wish to apply for the next Bach Singers Prize, due to take place in October and November 2026. Participants will work closely with a distinguished team of practitioners, including soprano Julia Doyle, known for her luminous performances of JS Bach’s cantatas and Passions; conductor and keyboardist Christopher Bucknall, a specialist in Baroque continuo and historically-informed performance; and Gerhard Gall, an acclaimed German language coach who has long collaborated with singers preparing Bach repertoire.

The sessions will examine the technical, linguistic, and expressive dimensions of Bach’s vocal writing. ‘Understanding how Bach sets text, and how the language drives the music, is essential,’ says Margaret Steinitz, artistic director of the London Bach Society. ‘This Study Day offers a practical and inspirational setting for singers to explore these elements in depth.’

Applications to participate are free of charge and open now. Observers are welcome to attend at £15 on the door. The deadline for applications is currently 24 October, though LBS notes this may be extended to accommodate demand.

The event sits within the wider framework of Bachfest 2025, the Society’s annual celebration of Bach’s music, which this year focuses on ‘Bach and the Voice’ through a programme of concerts, workshops and talks that explore the composer’s vocal writing from both scholarly and practical perspectives.

Further details, including the full Study Day programme and application information, are available on the London Bach Society website.


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