In 18th-century Protestant Germany, it was customary to perform a Passion on both Palm Sunday and Good Friday. Bach composed his passions in a liturgical style, mixing sacred texts with poetry in the manner of a madrigal. The St. Matthew Passion is distinctive in being scored for double chorus; this monumental work abounding in solemnity, spirituality and magnificence is led by the masterful hand of conductor Paul McCreesh.
J. S. Bach, St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244 (131 min.)
