Apollo’s Fire Will Release Bach Mass in B Minor
The Cleveland-based ensemble will issue their latest recording of the iconic choral work on October 23, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Classical
On October 23, 2026, AVIE Records will release a new recording of Johann Sebastian Bach's Mass in B minor. The performance is led by conductor Jeannette Sorrell and features an ensemble of 24 instrumentalists and 22 choristers.
Why it matters
The release serves as a definitive summation of Bach's artistic legacy. The ensemble aims to capture the intimacy of the composer's original performances through this specific interpretative approach.
The production features a total of 46 performers, including 24 instrumentalists and 22 choristers. This release marks an addition to the ensemble's library of 32 total commercial CDs.
The players
Apollo's Fire
This Cleveland-based baroque orchestra is known for its period-instrument performances and extensive recording catalog.
Jeannette Sorrell
She is the founder and conductor of Apollo's Fire and a renowned specialist in baroque music interpretation.
AVIE Records
This independent record label specializes in classical music releases and works with prominent international ensembles.
The details
Conductor Jeannette Sorrell leads the production, which utilizes a precise balance of instrumentalists and vocalists to emulate the sound of Bach's era. The project features soloists Rebecca Myers, Aryssa Leigh Burrs, Emily Marvosh, Jacob Perry, Edward Vogel, and Paul Max Tipton.
Timeline
Apollo's Fire was recognized for one of the top ten concerts in 2025.
AVIE Records releases the Mass in B minor recording on October 23, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The recording aligns with the broader Historically Informed Performance movement that reshapes modern classical music standards. By scaling ensembles to match period-appropriate sizes, the group counters the trend of bloated orchestral arrangements for baroque works.
Listeners can anticipate the recording becoming available across major digital and physical formats beginning October 23, 2026. This release provides an alternative to the ensemble's previous catalog, which has already garnered 17 million views on YouTube.
The takeaway
Collectors of baroque music should look for catalog number AV2850 to identify this specific performance. This project highlights how modern ensembles are working to revitalize legacy compositions through scaled-down, intimate instrumentation.
Further reading
Explore more upcoming projects from regional artists in our Classical section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
