The last time double bassist Edgar Meyer and mandolinist Chris Thile appeared together in Nashville, they played original instrumental numbers with titles like “Ham and Cheese” and “The Farmer and the Duck.” But every so often, Meyer would announce with dry humor that the duo would dispense with originals and play a cover. The intricate, precise and deeply emotional music of J.S. Bach would then fill the hall. Thile and Meyer are returning to Nashville on Wednesday, and they’re bringing a friend — renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma. These famed musicians will perform some of the Bach trios they recently recorded at James Taylor’s studio in the Berkshires. Bach’s music may seem like an odd choice for Thile, who recently took over Garrison Keillor’s job at Prairie Home Companion. It may seem even more strange to think of Bach on the mandolin. But in truth, Bach’s music, the most perfect ever written, sounds great on any instrument. When played by three of the world’s leading virtuosos, his music sounds simply sublime. The powerhouse trio’s concert has sold out, but the Nashville Symphony just announced that a limited number of (very expensive) seats are now available onstage. JOHN PITCHER
Edgar Meyer, Chris Thile and Yo-Yo Ma
