Bach's St John Passion at Easter

Few works in sacred music feel as immediate as JS Bach’s St John Passion. Written for Good Friday Vespers in Leipzig in 1724, it was the first Passion Bach presented in his new role as Thomaskantor. Bach wanted to make his mark, and from the outset, it’s clear that the music is not just a backdrop to the Good Friday liturgy. This is storytelling at its most gripping. Read Ash Khandekar's fascinating new Feature for Continuo Connect here.

Here's a round-up of period-instrument performances of this monumental work across the UK in the run-up to Easter. To see listings of upcoming performances of other choral works by Bach, head to Bach's Choral Masterpieces at Easter.