Through insightful talks and forums led by renowned scholars and musicians from around the world, audiences will explore Bach’s far-reaching influence in Asia, the universal resonance of his music, and his masterful musical interpretation of Christ’s passion through St. Matthew Passion.

Opening Ceremony and Forum

Bach in Asia

Wednesday, July 23 | 7:00 P.M.

Host:
Prof. Dr. Michael Maul, Musicologist & Artistic Director of Bachfest Leipzig, Germany

Panel:
Prof. Dr. Alex Tseng, Professor of Philosophy, ZheJiang University, China
Prof. Dr. David Chin, Founder & Artistic Director of Bachfest Malaysia
Noemi Binag, Executive Director of the Bamboo Organ Festival, Philippines

The inaugural International Bachfest Malaysia begins with a thought-provoking forum on a vital topic: Bach in Asia. Why host a Bach festival in Asia? What makes Bach’s music relevant to both Asian musicians and everyday listeners? How do Asian communities shape the global future of Bach’s music? Join us as we explore these questions and more.

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Lecture Series 1

BACH: Light to the World

Friday, July 25 ｜3:00 P.M.

Speaker: 
Prof. Dr. Alex Tseng
Professor of Philosophy, ZheJiang University, China 

Though deeply rooted in the sacred and artistic traditions of 18th-century Germany, Bach’s compositions speak to something profoundly human—an expression of order, beauty, and faith that resonates across centuries and continents. It is no surprise, then, that in our globalized world, Bach continues to captivate listeners far beyond Europe. Statistics even show that his music enjoys greater popularity in China than that of contemporary icons like Jay Chou. Why? In this lecture, we explore how Bach’s works embody this universality and why, more than 250 years after his death, he remains a guiding light for the world.

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Lecture Series 2

Christ's Passion According to Matthew

Saturday, July 26 | 4:00 P.M.
*Remark: This programme is open to non-muslims only.

Speaker:
Rev. Bishop Thomas Low
The Lutheran Church in Malaysia

Join us for "Christ’s Passion According to Matthew," a deep exploration of the Gospel of Matthew’s account of Jesus’ suffering, death, and sacrifice. As the theological foundation of J.S. Bach’s monumental St. Matthew Passion, this text shapes one of the most profound musical retellings of Christ’s final days. Through Matthew’s lens, we will uncover the spiritual depth, prophetic fulfillment, and emotional intensity that inspired Bach’s masterpiece. Whether you are a musician, theologian, or seeker, this talk invites you to experience the Passion story with fresh insight and renewed faith. Come and journey through Matthew’s Gospel in word and music.

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Lecture Series 3

Hearing Bach's Passion

Sunday, July 27 | 1:00 P.M.

Speaker:
Prof. Dr. Michael Maul, Speaker
Musicologist & Artistic Director of Bachfest Leipzig, Germany

How can we better listen to and appreciate Bach’s St. Matthew Passion? Join Prof. Dr. Michael Maul as he guides us through the musical language, structure, and expressive depth of this masterpiece. Discover how Bach weaves together chorales, dramatic turba choruses, intimate arias, and the Evangelist’s vivid narration to bring Matthew’s Passion account to life. Through historical insights and musical analysis, this talk will deepen your understanding of Bach’s storytelling, helping you experience the St. Matthew Passion with greater awareness, emotion, and spiritual insight. A must for musicians and listeners alike!