J.S. Bach’s motets are signature works of Musica Sacra; at this concert we feature two of his most exuberant works, Fürchte dich nicht, BWV 228 and Der Geist hilft unser Schwachheit auf, BWV 226. These works are quintessential Baroque motets, and joyful dances permeate the rich choral textures. Heinrich Schütz, one of Bach’s predecessors, composed marvelous psalms for double choir, and these show the influence of the Dresden court on the works of Bach. Brahms’ motet Ich aber bin elend is written in the Venetian Baroque style, echoing Schütz’s own Venetian influences. Rounding out the program are two sumptuous motets by Anton Bruckner – musical jewels of the Romantic era.