Culver City Observer -

On Saturday, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra (LACO) presented a concert as part of their special Baroque series at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.

Veteran LACO violinist, concertmaster and Director of Chamber Music, Margaret Batjer, led the charge as they presented an all-Bach program.

LACO's Baroque series features smaller groups of the Orchestra's musicians and guest artists on chamber masterworks from the Baroque Era (1600 to 1750). And Bach, the architect of the Baroque style was the perfect composer to showcase. His music is characterized by expressive and soaring melodies, distinctive harmonies, and musical flourishes. One could argue that he is the greatest of all time (GOAT).

Bajter conveyed her excitement and delight as she introduced each piece to the audience and mentioned that Bach's music is her personal favorite and brings her great joy to play his music.

The guest artist was Dashon Burton, a renowned and celebrated bass-baritone vocalist, who performed Bach's "Ice Habe Genus." Burton has a larger-than-life stage presence and a virile, resonating sound that projected throughout the acoustically-sound theater. This piece created a reflection on gratitude and the power of perspective.

The three other inventive gems by the masterful composer were Bach's Orchestral Suite No. 1; Concerto for Flute, Violin and Harpsichord; and Concerto for Three Violins.

All of the LACO musicians are highly accomplished and extremely capable, the world's best at what they do. And it was evident as each piece was played.

Los Angeles classical and Baroque music-lovers are privileged and fortunate to have LACO based in the City of Angels.

PHOTO CREDIT: Brian Feinzimer