Binding: Paperback
Description: Johann Sebastian Bach's the St. Matthew Passion stands as a singular expression of religious sensibility. First performed in 1727, and conceived within the constraints of Bach's role as cantor of the St. Thomas Church in the provincial German city of Leipzig the music has a power and profundity that readily transcend time and place. Yet the darkness of the subject - the betrayal trial and crucifixion of Jesus - and the complexity and sophistication of Bach's compositional techniques can make the St. Matthew Passion difficult listening for even the most eager novice. By highlighting the inspiration Bach drew from opera this book truly illuminates the hybrid forms that comprise the work thereby clarifying many of the composer's dramatic strategies. Drawn from the Gospel of St. Matthew the narrative sections - featuring characters including the narrator - Evangelist Pilate Peter Judas and Jesus himself - have tremendous theatrical power while non - Biblical arias and chorales offer moments of deep reflection and consolation. St. Matthew Passion shows the willing but intimidated beginner the way into the intricacies of Bach's masterwork while unveiling subtleties for the more knowledgeable listener as well. Finally Lederer recounts the fascinating performance history of the St. Matthew Passion and looks at the merits of different recordings of this extraordinary work indisputably one of the cornerstones of western music.
Title: Bach's St. Matthew Passion A Closer Look
Author(s): Lederer Victor
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Barcode: 9780826429407
Pages: 144 Pages
Language: English
Publication Date: 12/1/2008
Series: Magnum Opus
Category: Individual Composers & Musicians, Specific Bands & Groups