In this never-before-seen interview, Jonathan Pageau sits down with organist and arranger Matthew Wilkinson, long-time friend of The Symbolic World and the musician behind its theme, to explore the profound symbolism, theology, and cosmic patterns embedded in the music of J.S. Bach. Matthew shares the inspiration and recording process for his new album of Bach’s Clavierübung III (the “Organ Mass”), performed on a historic 18th-century organ (recorded on the Waltershausen Trost Organ in Germany, and released through Spektral Records). From the Trinitarian key of E-flat to the intricate structure of fugues, he reveals how Bach infused his compositions with theological meaning, numerology, and a vision of music as a microcosm of the “harmony of the spheres.”
The discussion ranges widely-touching on Lutheran chorales, the role of symbolism in key signatures, and how Bach’s contrapuntal mastery reflects the unity-in-diversity of creation. Matthew demonstrates musical concepts at the piano, showing how progression and return, layered fugue entrances, and harmonic architecture embody deep metaphysical ideas. Jonathan and Matthew also compare Gothic and Baroque aesthetics, exploring how architecture, acoustics, and theology shaped the sacred soundscapes of Bach’s era.
Beyond historical analysis, the two dive into broader themes: the interplay between tradition and innovation, the role of ornamentation, and parallels between sacred art and music across time. They discuss modern composers like Arvo Pärt, the influence of film scores, and how technical innovation - even from dissonant or avant-garde movements - can be integrated into a living tradition. This is a rich, multi-layered dialogue for anyone interested in Bach, sacred music, symbolism, theology, and the enduring power of beauty.
