Setting
the appropriate Gospel texts from Matthew and John, these passions include a
narrator who tells the Biblical story in recitative (style of singing that
resembles speech) while various soloists play different character roles in the
story. All the while, the choir acts as the commenting disciples/crowd in the
background. The choir and soloists are accompanied by a small ensemble.
Here
is a video of Bach’s St. John Passion conducted
by John Eliot Gardiner at the BBC Proms. Notice the size of the orchestra and
choir. This most likely is a more modern interpretation of the work, as Bach
would have likely used a small group of vocalists and instrumentalists.
Bach
had a close relationship with God and I think this is apparent listening to
works such as these. His worship and devotion to his creator is written in a
way that moves the worshiper in the audience.
Have
you ever seen a live performance of either the St. Matthew Passion or St.
John Passion? If so, what did you think?
