Led by world-renowned Music Director Paul Goodwin, the Carmel Bach Festival this year carries the theme "Spheres of Influence," celebrating Johann Sebastian Bach's impact on music around the world. It will take place in Carmel, California from July 14 to 28, 2012.

Tickets are available online or by phone at 831.624.1521. Ticket prices vary by event.

2012 Highlights:

A rare Carmel performance of the beautiful Rachmaninoff Vespers, also known as the All-Night Vigil. This a capella work was one of Rachmaninoff's own favorites -- he requested that the fifth movement be played at his funeral.

Chamber concerts will include performances by the internationally celebrated soloists Robin Blaze, countertenor; Thomas Cooley, tenor and Alexander Dobson, baritone.

The Thursday Main Concerts will feature Bach and Bluegrass. Guest artists are the virtuosic mandolin duo, Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg, among the most accomplished and versatile players in the United States and Europe, with members of the Festival Orchestra. The program will include Bach, Vivaldi, Bluegrass, and Bulgarian folk music.

Maestro Goodwin will continue his open rehearsals, inviting the audience to join him inside the artistic process. In 2011 the open rehearsals grew into a signature phenomenon with the final open rehearsal drawing a crowd of more than 600 to Carmel’s Sunset Center.

» View Carmel Bach Festival Calendar for a complete schedule of events

For more detailed information, schedule and to find out about Carmel Bach Festival and it's performers, special events and how to become a sponsor, donor or guest visit our website at www.bachfestival.org.