Johann Theile's St Matthew Passion, published in Lübeck in 1673 soon after he completed his studies with Heinrich Schütz, has earned its place in history with an intimate mix of contemplative recitatives, spellbinding choral interjections and final chorus of thanksgiving, offering a profound meditation for Good Friday as one of the first settings of the story of Christ's betrayal and crucifixion to include arias that reflect on the enormity of his death.

Programme:

Johann Theile St Matthew Passion

Performers:

Jan Kobow Evangelist
Jimmy Holliday Jesus
Lucy Cox soprano I
Eleanor Minnie soprano II
Elisabeth Paul alto
Simon Wall tenor
Tom Herring bass
Silas Wollston organ
Fretwork
Richard Boothby director