Good Friday Bach - St John Passion

EX CATHEDRA Choir, Baroque Orchestra & Academy of Vocal Music
Jeffrey Skidmore conductor

James Robinson Evangelist
Themba Mvula Jesus
Lawrence White Pilate
Margaret Lingas, Katie Trethewey soprano
Mercè Bruguera Abelló, Gabriella Liandu alto
Bradley Smith tenor
Thomas Lowen bass

300 years after its first performance, Bach’s St John Passion remains as powerful and profound as it must have been in 1724. The human drama of the story - Pilate’s dilemma, Peter’s denial - plus the emotion of the characters makes this a compelling pilgrimage, whatever your belief. And then there is the supreme beauty of Bach’s music, heightened by the colours and poignancy of the period instruments - not least the majestic acceptance of ‘Es ist vollbracht’ (It is accomplished).

In this anniversary performance, we incorporate chorale preludes, motets, congregational hymns and readings to offer a richer experience of the Good Friday service as Bach knew it.