Bach to the Future

ABC Series—All of Bach’s Chamber works, with the mission of performing the chamber music of J.S. Bach and those he influenced. These concerts will be approximately one hour in length, no intermission, and will have a post-concert reception where you can enjoy light snacks, refreshments, and meeting the musicians. Charles Asch presents a captivating solo cello recital that traces the influence of Baroque dance across three centuries of music. Beginning with selected movements from J. S. Bach’s beloved cello suites, the program explores how the rhythms, forms, and spirit of Baroque dance continued to inspire later composers. Works by George Crumb, John Harbison, and György Ligeti reimagine these traditions through distinctive modern voices, creating a fascinating dialogue between past and present. This concert is approximately one hour in length followed by a post-concert reception. This event is part of the 2026-27 Full Season Subscription. Charles Asch performs as a baroque cellist throughout Minnesota with ensembles including Bach Society of MN, Lyra Baroque Orchestra, and Bach Roots Festival. He has also performed solo cello and chamber music recitals through the Twin Cities Early Music Festival, where he also got his training on baroque cello from Jaap ter Linden. He obtained his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Minnesota, as well as his Master of Music degree from Juilliard. His undergraduate studies were completed at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, in both German studies and Music Performance.