cms performing the brandenburg concertos

Bach's Brandenburg Concertos with Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

Sounds of the Season Holiday Concert Series

Saturday • Dec 19, 2026 • 5:00pm

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Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College

Experience a beloved holiday tradition with world-class chamber musicians — right here in Saratoga!

This December, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center brings one of the Baroque era’s most iconic masterpieces back to Saratoga Springs: the Complete Brandenburg Concertos by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Hailed by The New Yorker as “joyous, effervescent, and yes, festive,” CMS’s performances of these concertos have become a treasured holiday tradition in New York City. Following their sold-out show in 2025, CMS returns for this fan-favorite Sounds of the Season performance with all six works in one dazzling evening — performed by twenty of the world’s finest chamber musicians on the stage of the Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College.

Overflowing with inventiveness, virtuosity, and exuberance, Bach’s Brandenburgs are a timeless celebration of human creativity and the unifying power of music. This luminous performance promises to uplift and inspire — a radiant finale to the year, and a stirring glimpse of all that lies ahead.

Join Today for Exclusive Benefits

Enjoy classical ticket discounts, Live Nation priority ticket access, preferred parking and special event invites.

Become a member

Tickets go on sale to the public on Friday, October 16 at 10AM.

SPAC Member presale takes place October 9 through 15, tiered by membership level:

President’s Circle, Premiere Patron, & Corporate Visionary: Friday, October 9 at 10AM
Golden Patron, Corporate Innovator, & Corporate Pioneer: Tuesday, October 13 at 10AM
Patron, Corporate Leader, & Corporate Mentor: Wednesday, October 14 at 10AM
Bravo & Encore: Thursday, October 15 at 10AM
Applause & Ovation: Friday, October 15 at 10AM

Not a member? Join today for presale access!

Program

Bach	Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G major
Bach	Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 in F major
Bach	Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F major
Bach	Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D major
Bach	Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 in B-flat major
Bach	Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G major

Performers

PAOLO BORDIGNON, harpsichord

AARON BOYD, violin/piccolo violin

STELLA CHEN, violin

JULIAN RHEE, violin

ARNAUD SUSSMANN, violin/viola

PAUL NEUBAUER, viola

MILENA PÁJARO-VAN DE STADT, viola

EDWARD ARRON, cello

MIHAI MARICA, cello

JONATHAN SWENSEN, cello

ANTHONY MANZO, double bass

DEMARRE MCGILL, flute

TARA HELEN O’CONNOR, flute

RANDALL ELLIS, oboe

STEPHEN TAYLOR, oboe

JURI VALLENTIN, oboe

JAKE THONIS, bassoon

DAVID BYRD-MARROW, horn

ERIC REED, horn

CALEB HUDSON, trumpet

Milena Pájaro-van de Stadt

Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College

While Spa Little Theater undergoes renovations as part of SPAC’s 60th anniversary celebration in 2026, we’re presenting events in the Helen Filene Ladd Concert Hall in Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College. This 600+ seat venue offers amazing acoustics and a stunning three-story glass backdrop that lets art and nature mingle — making it a perfect “home away from home” for SPAC.

Learn more about Zankel Music Center

‘Tis the season for giving!

Help SPAC Action Council “Fill the Pantry” to benefit a local charity

Bring a donation item to help the SPAC Action Council “fill the pantry” this holiday season on behalf of Franklin Community Center. Look for the donation box inside Zankel Music Center during each of our holiday performances to drop off your donation. Together, we can make a difference!

Accepted items include: granola bars, individually wrapped snacks, canned foods (pasta, soup, fruits, and vegetables), coffee (ground and pods), and personal hygienic products like 2-in-1 shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, tissues, baby wipes, etc. Cash donations for Franklin Community Center will also be accepted.

View Full List of Needed Donation Items

Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Merchandise

From a wide collection of CDs showcasing the artistry of CMS across the years to newly released face masks and the cherished Brandenburg holiday ornaments, see all of the merchandise that’s available on the CMS Shop!

Shop Here

Group Sales

Experience SPAC together! From groups of friends and family to corporate outings, senior centers, summer camps, and arts schools, we can curate a special experience for your group of 10 or more. We offer discounts, flexible options and can work with your group leader to tailor your needs for a memorable day.

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Where to Stay

Whether you’re visiting from out of town, or want to stay the night nearby after an event, Saratoga Springs has a place waiting for you. As part of our commitment to the community, SPAC is proud to collaborate with preferred hotel partners to offer the best experience to our guests.

Learn More & Reserve