International Bach Festival – Netherlands Season 2025-2026
Background & History
The International Bach Festival in the Netherlands is organized by the Netherlands Bach Society, founded in 1921. This society is dedicated to performing and sharing the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and other early music composers with audiences worldwide. Over the years, the festival has grown into one of the most respected celebrations of Baroque music, blending historic masterpieces with contemporary interpretations and thematic programs. The 2025–2026 season continues this tradition, offering both iconic works like the Mass in B minor and St Matthew Passion, and innovative performances connecting Bach’s music to modern themes.
Event Highlights
- Renowned Performances: Includes the Mass in B minor, St Matthew Passion (conducted by Masaaki Suzuki), and All Souls commemorations.
- Reflect with Bach Series: Combines cantatas with philosophical talks on themes like acceptance, nostalgia, and peace.
- Special Productions: “The Opera Circus” is dedicated to Handel, and “Bach’s Inspiration” features collaborations with contemporary composers.
- Traditional Favorites: Annual Lamentations concerts on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.
Date & Duration
| Production | Dates | Details |
| Mass in B minor | Dec 12 – 21, 2025 | A Christmas tour conducted by Richard Egarr, performing in cities including Utrecht, Naarden, Amsterdam, and Tilburg. |
| The Opera Circus | Jan 11 – Mar 13, 2026 | A collaboration with OPERA2DAY focusing on the dramatic music of George Frideric Handel. |
| St Matthew Passion | Mar 21 – Apr 4, 2026 | Conducted by Baroque master Masaaki Suzuki. Performances are held at the Grote Kerk Naarden and other major halls like Het Concertgebouw. |
| Lamentations | Apr 3 – 4, 2026 | Intimate morning concerts on Good Friday and Holy Saturday, held prior to the St Matthew Passion. |
| Bach’s Inspiration | May 10 – 17, 2026 | Conducted by Johanna Soller, this program explores Bach alongside contemporary works by Gregor A. Mayrhofer. |
Venue / Location
- Address: Plompetorengracht 21, 3512 CB Utrecht, Netherlands
- Cities: Utrecht, Naarden, Amsterdam, and other concert halls in the Netherlands.
- Main Venues: Grote Kerk Naarden, TivoliVredenburg (Utrecht), Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ (Amsterdam).
Contact Information
- Phone: +31 30 252 4010
- Email: info@bachvereniging.nl
- Website: bachvereniging.nl
Ticket Information
- Single Concert Tickets: $13.60 – $65.40 depending on seating and age (youth rate available).
- Series Pass – Naarden: $142.80 – $314.00
- Series Pass – Utrecht: $119.65 – $207.10
- Series Pass – Amsterdam: $189.70 – $282.30
- Sales: Available online through the official website; certain venues sell directly via their own platforms.
- Discounts: Youth up to 16 years: $10; up to 29 years: $17.50 (excl. St Matthew Passion).
- VIP Options: Gold seating is available for Naarden performances.
Cultural Experience
Visitors can expect an authentic Baroque music experience, performed on period instruments by world-class musicians. Many programs pair music with philosophical or literary reflections, offering a rich, contemplative atmosphere. Traditional concert etiquette and formal attire are common, creating an elegant cultural immersion.
Food & Drinks
While the festival itself focuses on music, nearby concert venues and city centers in Utrecht, Naarden, and Amsterdam offer a wide selection of Dutch and international dining options, from fine dining to casual cafés.
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Family & Accessibility
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for music lovers of all ages; youth discounts available.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces are available at Naarden concerts (reservation required by phone).
Getting There
- By Air: The Nearest major airport is Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS).
- By Train: Utrecht, Naarden-Bussum, and Amsterdam are well-connected by rail.
- By Car: Parking is available near most venues; advance booking is recommended.
- Public Transport: Local buses, trams, and trains provide easy access to all festival locations.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
When do ticket sales start for the 2025-2026 season?
Series sales start on May 12, 2025, and single ticket sales begin on June 2, 2025. Friends and sponsors receive early access.
Can I buy tickets for concerts outside Naarden through the festival website?
No, concerts outside Naarden are sold by their respective venues, with links provided on the festival website.
Are there discounts for students and young people?
Yes, youth up to 16 years can attend for $10, and those up to 29 years for $17.50 (excludes St Matthew Passion).
Is there an option to exchange or cancel tickets?
Tickets for Naarden concerts can be exchanged (excluding St Matthew Passion) up to two working days before the event; no refunds are given.
How can I book wheelchair spaces?
Wheelchair spaces must be reserved by contacting the Communication & Ticket Sales department by phone; they are not available for online booking.
