Why is "Erbarme dich, mein Gott" considered one of the most emotionally powerful arias in Bach's St. Matthew Passion? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Johann Sebastian Bach: Master of Baroque Music
Johann Sebastian Bach's "Matthäuspassion," also known as the St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244, is a monumental work in the world of classical music. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Historical Significance: The St. Matthew Passion is one of Bach's most famous and revered compositions. It is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of classical sacred music.
Composition Date: Bach composed the St. Matthew Passion in 1727, during his time as the Kapellmeister (music director) in Leipzig, Germany.
Biblical Inspiration: The St. Matthew Passion is based on the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 26 and 27, which recount the events leading to and including the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Bach's composition sets this narrative to music.
Dual Chorus and Orchestra: The St. Matthew Passion is scored for a double choir and a double orchestra. This creates rich harmonies and complex interplay between the voices and instruments, contributing to its grandeur.
Narrator and Characters: In this composition, Bach employs various vocal soloists to represent different characters from the biblical story, including the Evangelist (narrator), Jesus, Judas, Peter, and others. The text is primarily sung in recitative style, resembling spoken dialogue.
Chorales: The St. Matthew Passion features several chorales, which are hymn-like compositions that are interspersed throughout the work. These chorales allow the congregation to participate in the storytelling and reflection.
Turba Choruses: Bach includes turba (crowd) choruses to represent the reactions of the crowd during Jesus's trial and crucifixion. These choruses are dramatic and emotionally charged.
Use of Instruments: Bach's use of instruments in the St. Matthew Passion is notable. He employs instruments like flutes, oboes, bassoons, strings, and continuo to convey various emotions and musical colors.
Lengthy Composition: The St. Matthew Passion is a lengthy work, typically lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours in performance, making it one of Bach's longest compositions.
Rediscovery: After Bach's death in 1750, his music fell into relative obscurity for several decades. The revival of his music in the 19th century played a significant role in establishing his reputation as a musical genius, with the St. Matthew Passion being a central piece in his rediscovery.
Performance Tradition: The St. Matthew Passion has been performed regularly in churches and concert halls around the world, especially during the Easter season. Its profound and emotional portrayal of the Passion story continues to captivate audiences.
Influence on Later Composers: Bach's St. Matthew Passion had a profound influence on later composers such as Felix Mendelssohn and Johannes Brahms, who admired and championed Bach's music. Mendelssohn's famous performance of the St. Matthew Passion in 1829 is often credited with rekindling interest in Bach's works.
The St. Matthew Passion is a testament to Bach's compositional genius and his ability to convey deep spiritual and emotional themes through music. It remains a beloved and timeless masterpiece in the classical music canon.