The Bach Choir of Bethlehem

The Bethlehem Bach Choir is the oldest American choir dedicated to the vocal music of J.S. Bach. The ensemble consists of about 100 singers, all volunteers, and a chamber orchestra of professional musicians. The Bethlehem Bach Choir (or Bach Choir of Bethlehem) was founded in Bethlehem, PA, on December 5, 1898, by Ruth Porter Doster. The Bach Choir's inaugural concert was presented on March 27, 1900. Greg Funfgeld led the ensemble on its first CDs, Christmas in Leipzig (1988) and Wachet Auf! (1989). In 2004, PBS presented a documentary program, Make a Joyful Noise, about the group. Among the Bach Choir's later recordings is its 2009 album of Bach's Magnificat, BWV 243, and Vivaldi's Gloria, RV 589. In 2024, the Bethlehem Bach Choir issued a recording of Mendelssohn's rare 1841 version of Bach's St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244.