Somerset Chamber Choir Concert – J. S. Bach St. John Passion
Richard Laing – Conductor
The Musical & Amicable Society (Baroque Chamber Orchestra)
James Gilchrist – Evangelist
Sophie Gallager – Soprano
Hamish McLaren – Countertenor
Rory Carver – Tenor
Geoff Williams – Baritone
Niall Anderson – Bass
There can be few more powerfully expressive works than Bach’s Passion according to St. John.Here is the story of Christ’s last days, told with more drama and musical ingenuity than any swords-and-sandals Hollywood epic.
The baying mob portrayed by the chorus contrasts with the intimate and intensely moving arias of the soloists, and the whole is bound together by the poignant narration of the Evangelist, her sung by one of the world’s greatest interpreters of the role, James Gilchrist.
This is a work offering inspiration and solace in a troubled world; even those who struggle with the idea of organised religion find some spiritual comfort in the story and the music and the music of the great Passions. As the English painter and critic Roger fry commented, “Bach almost persuades me to be a Christian!”
This performance will be accompanied by the specialist baroque ensemble, the Musical and Amicable Society,playing authentic instruments that Bach would recognise. Somerset Chamber Choirand James Gilchrist are joined by five rising stars from the UK’s foremost conservatoires. In the uplifting setting ofWells Cathedralthis promises to be a very special occasion.
