Springtime in Provence
Bach by Harp at Shiloh Manor
The Wheatland Concert Series Presents
An Evening of Johann Sebastian Bach, Solo Harp & French Wine Dinner
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Price: Coming Soon
Bach Reimagined for the Concert Harp
Johann Sebastian Bach is renowned for composing for nearly every instrument and ensemble known in his time. Yet the instrument we now call the modern concert harp was developed after Bach’s death in the late 18th century.
Even so, many of Bach’s keyboard, cello, and lute works translate beautifully to the harp. In this setting, the harp adds a warm, luminous, and almost otherworldly character to Bach’s music, allowing familiar compositions to be heard in a fresh and intimate way.
Featuring Dr. Alyson Kanne
The Wheatland Concert Series welcomes Dr. Alyson Kanne for an unforgettable summer evening of selections by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged for solo harp.
Guests will experience Bach’s music through the warm, shimmering voice of the concert harp in the intimate and historic setting of Shiloh Manor Farm.
The Harp: An Ancient Instrument with a Modern Voice
The harp is among the oldest known musical instruments. Ancient harps have been found in the royal cemetery of Ur in modern-day Iraq and date back nearly 6,000 years. These early instruments were small and simple, often shaped like a bow attached to a sound box.
A major development came in northern Europe, likely Scotland or Ireland, between the 8th and 9th centuries, with the addition of a front pillar. This three-sided frame harp allowed for higher string tension, producing a louder and richer sound. Over time, the harp became deeply rooted in Celtic musical culture.
By the early 19th century, French instrument maker Sébastien Érard developed the double-action pedal system, allowing the harp to be played efficiently in all keys. This innovation became the foundation for the modern 47-string, seven-pedal concert harp heard today.
The Program
The evening’s program will include selections from Bach’s Goldberg Variations and other works arranged for solo harp.
The Goldberg Variations have long been associated with beauty, comfort, and contemplation. Whether heard on keyboard or reimagined for harp, the work remains one of Bach’s most treasured musical achievements.
French Wine Dinner by Magnolias
As is our tradition at Shiloh Manor Farm, this concert will be paired with a carefully prepared dinner experience.
Chef Ian and Magnolias are preparing a French-inspired wine dinner to accompany the evening’s music.
Menu Coming Soon
The final menu and wine pairings will be announced soon.
Guests can expect a refined dinner experience designed to complement the elegance of Bach’s music and the atmosphere of a summer evening at Shiloh.
What to Expect
- A candlelit summer evening at historic Shiloh Manor Farm
- A live solo harp recital by Dr. Alyson Kanne
- Selections from Johann Sebastian Bach arranged for concert harp
- A French-inspired wine dinner prepared by Chef Ian and Magnolias
- Limited seating in an intimate setting
- A peaceful evening of music, food, wine, and conversation
More information, including the final menu and ticket details, will be posted soon.
An Evening of Music, Wine & Candlelight
We hope you can join us for a warm summer evening listening to Bach performed on solo harp against the backdrop of Shiloh Manor’s historic stone walls, illuminated by the flicker of candles.
Tickets and full menu details coming soon.
