Bach Society Houston: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Bach Society Houston is a professional ensemble dedicated to presenting historically informed performances of the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, his contemporaries, and his musical descendants. Founded in 1982 at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Houston, Texas, the organization has grown into a prominent cultural institution, recognized for its commitment to authentic interpretations and community engagement.

Mission and Vision

The Society's mission is to offer rich, vibrant, historically informed performances of Bach's works and those of his musical lineage to audiences in Houston and beyond. Its vision encompasses fostering a deep appreciation for Baroque music through education, performance, and community outreach.

Primary Area of Focus

Bach Society Houston specializes in the performance of Johann Sebastian Bach's compositions, including cantatas, motets, and organ works, as well as pieces by his contemporaries and successors. The organization emphasizes historically informed performance practices, utilizing period instruments and authentic techniques to deliver an experience true to the Baroque era.

Industry Significance

As a leading ensemble in the early music scene, Bach Society Houston has significantly contributed to the cultural landscape of Houston and the broader United States. Its performances have been described as a "jewel of the Houston arts and music scene," highlighting its role in preserving and promoting Baroque music.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Authentic Performance: Deliver historically informed renditions of Bach's works and those of his musical descendants.

Community Engagement: Provide accessible musical experiences to the Houston community through free or low-cost performances.

Educational Outreach: Offer educational programs and lectures to deepen the public's understanding of Baroque music.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Cantatas and Motets: Regularly performing Bach's sacred vocal works in the context of vespers services.

Organ Recitals: Showcasing the capabilities of the "Bach Organ," a period instrument installed in 1995.

Chamber Music: Presenting chamber music concerts featuring works from the Baroque period.

Key Technologies Utilized

Period Instruments: Utilizing instruments from the Baroque era to achieve authentic sound quality.

Historically Informed Performance Practices: Employing techniques such as basso continuo realization and period-specific ornamentation.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Local Community: Engaging Houston residents through accessible performances.

Academic Institutions: Collaborating with universities and schools to provide educational programs.

International Audiences: Performing at international festivals, such as BachFest in Leipzig, Germany.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Bach Society Houston operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, relying on a combination of ticket sales, individual donations, and grants to fund its activities. Ticket sales account for less than 10% of its income, indicating a strong reliance on philanthropic support.

Total Funds Raised

In the fiscal year ending June 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $246,007, with total expenses of $181,353.

Notable Investors and Donors

The Society has received grants from various foundations and organizations, including:

Fidelity Investments Charitable Gift Fund

American Online Giving Foundation

The Bessemer Giving Fund

These contributions support the Society's mission and programming.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds are allocated towards:

Performance Costs: Covering expenses related to concerts and events.

Educational Programs: Funding outreach and educational initiatives.

Operational Expenses: Supporting administrative and operational needs.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

As a performing arts organization, Bach Society Houston's "pipeline" consists of its upcoming concert seasons and educational programs.

Stages of Development

Planning: Curating concert programs and educational curricula.

Rehearsal: Preparing ensembles for performances.

Performance: Delivering concerts and educational sessions to the public.

Target Conditions

The organization focuses on presenting works by Johann Sebastian Bach and his contemporaries, aiming to provide audiences with a deep understanding of Baroque music.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Season Announcements: Typically released several months in advance to allow for planning and ticket sales.

Educational Program Launches: Coordinated with academic calendars to maximize student participation.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Bach Organ: A period instrument installed in 1995, built by Fritz Noack in the style of 18th-century Saxon organ builder Zacharias Hildebrandt.

Significant Scientific Methods

Historically Informed Performance Practices: Employing techniques such as basso continuo realization and period-specific ornamentation to achieve authentic sound quality.

Leadership Team

Rick Erickson – Artistic Director

Rick Erickson serves as the Artistic Director of Bach Society Houston. Prior to his tenure with the Society, he served for 22 years as Cantor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in New York, where he directed the Bach Vespers series.

Ben Kerswell – Artistic Director Designate

Ben Kerswell is the Artistic Director Designate of Bach Society Houston. He also serves as the Cantor at Christ the King Lutheran Church, where he collaborates with the Society in its musical endeavors.

Rachel Dvoretzky CFRE – Executive Director

Rachel Dvoretzky is the Executive Director of Bach Society Houston. She holds the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, indicating her expertise in nonprofit fundraising and management.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The early music scene in Houston is vibrant, with several organizations dedicated to the performance and promotion of Baroque music. Bach Society Houston distinguishes itself through its commitment to historically informed performance practices and its extensive community engagement.

Competitor Analysis

Houston Chamber Choir: A professional chamber choir founded in 1995, presenting diverse choral programming throughout the Houston region.

Ars Lyrica Houston: An ensemble specializing in 17th and 18th-century music on period instruments, founded in 1998.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Bach Society Houston has collaborated with various cultural organizations, including the German, Swedish, and Danish consulates, the Czech Cultural Center, and the Houston-Leipzig Sister City Association, enhancing its international presence and cultural exchange.

Operational Insights

Bach Society Houston's focus on historically informed performance practices and its commitment to community engagement provide it with a distinct competitive advantage in the Houston arts scene.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The Society continues to explore opportunities for international collaboration, educational outreach, and the expansion of its performance repertoire to further its mission and impact.