Come celebrate the birthday of Johann Sebastian Bach – he’d be turning a cool 331 this week – with some of the finest young musicians in the Bay Area and beyond! The Junior Bach Festival is enjoying its own 63rd birthday, having been founded in Berkeley in 1953 by music teacher and pianist Tirzah Mailkoff. The festival promotes the study, performance, and appreciation of Bach’s music with an annual series of concerts showcasing musicians under age 21 from all over northern California, chosen by audition, and playing under the direction of Lisa Grodin.

Distinguished alumni include Roy Bogas, Sarah Cahill, Jeremy Cohen, Tristan and Tashina Claridge, Jon Nakamatsu, Ben Simon, and many others who have pursued musical careers, teaching and performing locally, nationally, and worldwide. Their success suggests that the educational work of the organization, which is staffed entirely by volunteers, has been more than worthwhile. Add to that the pleasure audiences take from beautiful music, beautifully played, and you have a formula for a wonderful birthday celebration, year after year!

Junior Bach Festival is dedicated to touching young lives by promoting the study and performance of the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. Presented annually about the time of Bach's birthday, March 21, the Festival features in concert some of the finest young musical talent in California, chosen by audition.  

visit the Junior Bach Festival website