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Bach Talk, presented by The Bach Society of Saint Louis, invites you on an enlightening journey into the timeless world of Johann Sebastian Bach. Classical music radio veteran Ron Klemm guides you through this monthly podcast, delving into a vibrant community that keeps Bach’s music alive. Beyond the concert stage, we uncover fascinating stories, offer musical insights and present profiles of the people that breathe life into Bach’s compositions.Join us as we explore Bach’s genius and the enduring legacy of his work. Whether you’re a seasoned Bach enthusiast or new to his music, Bach Talk welcomes you to join the conversation and discover the profound impact of Bach’s artistry on the world of music.
29 Episodes
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Tune in for the latest on Bach Talk: Crossing Borders Matters.
From Bach and Handel to new and rarely performed music from Latin America, Border CrosSing is making waves and breaking down barriers. By combining musical and cultural styles, this Minnesota-based, award-winning choral group is intentional about crossing borders through choral music to impact singers and audiences alike.
The Bach Society’s Scott MacDonald and Zach Singer sat down with Founder and Artistic Director Ahmed Anzaldúa at the 2025 Chorus America Conference. Their conversation reveals how artistic risk can bring deep reward and why music matters in the many forms it takes.
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.
In this special holiday edition of Bach Talk, host Ron Klemm takes you behind the scenes of The Bach Society of Saint Louis’ cherished Christmas Candlelight Concert, returning to Powell Hall on December 23. Hear from members of the chorus, orchestra and team at The Bach Society as they share what makes this concert so meaningful. From the Candlelight Processional to the mix of traditional carols and reimagined works, this concert has been a St. Louis tradition for over 70 years. With a preview of this year’s program, discover why so many say, “It isn’t Christmas without it.”
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.
Whether in the studio, on stage or in a collaboration, soprano Clara Rottsolk brings joy to her work. Lauded by The New York Times for her “clear, appealing voice and expressive conviction,” she’s a sought-after performer on several continents. As Bach Talk host Ron Klemm and The Bach Society’s Assistant Executive Director Danielle Feinstein learned, perhaps Clara’s greatest joy comes from sharing her artistry and passing along a legacy of excellence.
In this episode, she reflects on her upbringing as the child of church musicians and the lessons that help her stay grounded in an unpredictable career, from surprise debuts to redefining success on her own terms.
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.
From the podium to the podcast mic, our conductor is once again taking center stage on Bach Talk. Ron Klemm and Scott MacDonald sit down with Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger as he reflects on his 40 years with The Bach Society of Saint Louis and shares insights about the music he loves. In this episode, he also takes us inside Mozart’s immortal Requiem, the opening work of our 85th season, exploring what makes it so powerful and why it continues to move audiences.
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.
From calling Aaron Copland on a whim to commissioning works for James Earl Jones, Philip Brunelle’s career is marked by bold ideas, fearless curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to music. Bach Talk Host Ron Klemm and Bach Society's Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger sit down with the legendary founder of VocalEssence; one of the world's premier choral organizations based in Minneapolis, MN. A member of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, Philip shares stories from six decades on the podium, his belief in trust between singers and leaders, and how curiosity continues to drive his work today.
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.
Host Ron Klemm is joined by Danielle Feinstein, Assistant Executive Director of The Bach Society of Saint Louis, to kick off season three of Bach Talk with soprano Bethany Worrell. They talk about how teaching and performing go hand in hand and what it means to grow as both an artist and educator. Bethany shares stories from her career, reflections on choosing growth over perfection and why “being an artist is very cool.”
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.
In this special live episode of Bach Talk, recorded at the 2025 Chorus America Conference, host Ron Klemm sits down with legendary conductor Leonard Slatkin for an intimate conversation spanning his remarkable career. The six-time Grammy winner shares captivating stories from growing up during Hollywood's golden age, where Rubinstein and Stravinsky played on the family piano, to his current projects and passion for the arts. From conducting techniques to the challenges facing the arts in America today, this unscripted conversation features live audience Q&A and performances by The Bach Society Chorus, capturing Slatkin's passion, wisdom and his rallying cry: "Let us be. Let us grow."
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.
What makes Bach’s music move us so deeply, whether we share his beliefs or not? In this episode of Bach Talk, host Ron Klemm and The Bach Society’s Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger chat with scholar Michael Marissen about how Bach’s faith shaped his powerful compositions. Michael, author of "Bach & God" and "Bach Against Modernity", challenges modern assumptions about the composer. He argues that Bach was fundamentally “pre-modern” in his outlook, with a seamless connection between his music and beliefs. Tune in for a fresh take on the emotional and spiritual depth of Bach’s work.
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.
Listen in as Bach Talk host Ron Klemm chats with tenor Gene Stenger about life on stage including his experiences with The Bach Society of Saint Louis. Gene shares stories from his musical upbringing, career highlights and a lighthearted anecdote about how his cat allergy almost disrupted a performance. Plus, enjoy featured samples of Gene’s performances throughout the episode!
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.
Since 1951, The Bach Society of Saint Louis’ annual Christmas Candlelight Concert has drawn nearly a quarter of a million attendees, becoming a cherished holiday tradition. In this episode of Bach Talk, host Ron Klemm sits down with Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger to share lively stories, over a dozen musical samplings, and what makes this concert magical. Plus, enjoy a heartfelt holiday message from the chorus to cap off the holiday season.
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.
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.
The conversation continues with internationally acclaimed soprano Christine Brewer! She’s sharing more stories from behind the curtain, including the reality of on-stage mishaps, her perspectives on teaching young artists and how our life experiences shape the way music is both performed and felt. With many accolades including a star on the St. Louis Walk of Fame, she is a true star in every sense. But it’s her humility and kindness that shine through most in this heartfelt conversation. Join Ron Klemm and A. Dennis Sparger for another glimpse into the world of one of the greatest sopranos of all time on Bach Talk.
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.
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.
Get ready for another episode of Bach Talk as we dive deeper into the world of The Bach Society of Saint Louis with Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger. In this second installment of 'Meet the Maestro', we uncover more about the man behind the music and his remarkable journey. He also shares insights into the importance of teamwork, respect for volunteers and the power of Bach's music in uplifting and transforming people's lives. The episode also touches on Dr. William B. Heyne, the founder of The Bach Society, and how Dennis continues to carry on the legacy of Bach's music.
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.
Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.
In this debut episode of Bach Talk, host Ron Klemm sits down with The Bach Society of Saint Louis Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger. They discuss the formative moments that led Dennis to pursue a life of music from his mother singing to his introduction to the accordion. Join us to hear about the memories, music and influences that make up Maestro Sparger.
View the Bach Talk Show Notes here.
Learn more about The Bach Society of Saint Louis at bachsociety.org.
Tune in to Bach Talk as host Ron Klemm and Music Director and Conductor A. Dennis Sparger sit down with one of today’s leading music publishers. Mark Lawson, President of ECS Publishing Group, also serves on the Bach Society Board and is the current Chair-Elect of the Chorus America Board. From growing up on a farm in rural Missouri to collaborating with some of the world’s top composers, Mark shares his unique journey through the world of music publishing. Hear how he’s helped bring new music to life and his hopeful perspective on where the future of music is headed.
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.
Grammy Award-winning soprano Christine Brewer takes us on a journey from her roots in Southern Illinois to commanding the stages of the world's most prestigious opera houses and concert halls. Join Ron Klemm and A. Dennis Sparger on Bach Talk as they chat about her influences, her commitment to storytelling and the role family plays in her career.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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