3rd Bachchor Concert
Johann Sebastian Bach: »St Matthew Passion« BWV 244
Peterskirche
Apart from the St John Passion, the St Matthew Passion is the only authentic passion of Johann Sebastian Bach that has survived in its entirety. However, the current versions of these two passions are the result of several changes, amendments and additions by Bach himself. The St Matthew Passion is Bach’s most extensive work and undoubtedly represents a highpoint of his oeuvre. The work is split in two parts. The passion narrative relating the final days of Jesus before his crucifixion as »recounted« by Bach’s Evangelist is based on verses from chapters 26 and 27 of the Gospel of Matthew in its German translation by Martin Luther. In addition to that, the libretto is based on poetry by Picander and chorals of the chant book.
Listen to an introduction by Christian Kabitz (in German) here.