Bachcelona Consort recreates the auditions that could have changed Bach’s history

Foodie travellers wishing to complement their stay in Menorca with a distinctive cultural experience have an appointment on Thursday, 13 August, at 8.30 pm, at the Pedreres de s’Hostal. Bachcelona Consort will present Leipzig 1723, a concert inspired by the historic auditions held to appoint the new Cantor of St Thomas Church.

After the death of Johann Kuhnau, Georg Philipp Telemann, Christoph Graupner and Johann Sebastian Bach competed for the position. Bach was not the first choice, but eventually took up the post after Telemann and Graupner withdrew. This unexpected turn would shape an essential chapter in the history of European music.

Bachcelona Consort will recreate that moment through arias, duets and instrumental works by the three composers. The programme brings together music by Telemann, Graupner and Bach, revealing the differences and connections between the candidates.

Singers Maëlys Robinne and Jana Corominas will be joined by oboe, traverso, violins, viola, cello and harpsichord, under the direction of Daniel Tarrida.

For foodie visitors, the evening can be combined with a walk through Ciutadella, an early dinner featuring Menorcan produce and a classical concert among Líthica’s monumental sandstone walls. It is a cultural experience that brings together gastronomy, heritage and musical history.

Experience Foodies on Menorca details

Event: Bachcelona Consort – Leipzig 1723
Date: Thursday, 13 August 2026
Time: 8.30 pm
Venue: Pedreres de s’Hostal – Líthica
Location: Ciutadella de Menorca
Programme: Baroque music by Telemann, Graupner and Johann Sebastian Bach
Performers: Maëlys Robinne, Jana Corominas, Katy Elkin, David Gutiérrez, Ignacio Ramal, Angela Moro, Ricardo Gil, Guillermo Turina and Daniel Tarrida
Recommended experience: Visit Ciutadella, enjoy an early dinner and attend the classical concert at Líthica
Ideal for: Foodie travellers interested in music, heritage and European history
Tickets: https://tickets.artlithica.es/es/1522-fosquets-lithica/13251-bachcelona-leipzig-1723/info