Living Bach

Living Bach delves into the phenomenon of over 300 Bach choirs and ensembles globally, most composed of dedicated amateurs rather than professional musicians. These groups have made Bach's music central to their lives, demonstrating the composer's enduring influence beyond classical music circles. The documentary captures their stories, rehearsals, and performances, illustrating the communal and spiritual aspects of engaging with Bach's works.

Director Anna Schmidt, known for her detailed cultural documentaries, filmed across six continents to show how Bach's music transcends geographic and cultural boundaries. Schmidtfilm and Departures Film collaborated on the production, emphasizing authenticity by focusing on everyday musicians rather than celebrities or major orchestras.

David Portillo appears in the film, contributing perspectives on Bach's music and its significance to performers and audiences. The runtime of 114 minutes allows for an in-depth exploration of various ensembles' connections to Bach, from small choirs to larger groups.

Collectors will find Living Bach available on several physical media formats including VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, and laserdisc, making it accessible in both legacy and modern formats. The availability across these formats supports collectors who prioritize different media technologies or seek to compare presentations of the documentary.

The film's focus on amateur musicianship and the global reach of Bach's music offers a unique cultural study rather than a conventional biographical documentary. It stands as a testament to the composer's timeless appeal and the diverse ways his music continues to inspire community and identity worldwide.