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Johann Sebastian Bach's "Matthäuspassion" (St. Matthew Passion), BWV 244, is one of his most celebrated and monumental works. Here are some interesting facts about this masterpiece:

1. Biblical Narrative: The Matthäuspassion is a sacred oratorio that tells the story of the Passion of Jesus Christ as narrated in the Gospel of Matthew. It includes recitatives, arias, chorales, and choruses, with text taken directly from the Bible.

2. Double Chorus and Orchestra: One of the distinctive features of the Matthäuspassion is the use of double chorus and orchestra. This allows Bach to create rich and intricate polyphonic textures, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.

3. Chorales: Bach incorporates Lutheran chorales into the Matthäuspassion. These chorales, familiar hymns to the audience of Bach's time, serve as points of reflection and meditation within the larger narrative.

4. Sung Recitatives: The use of sung recitatives in the Matthäuspassion helps to convey the narrative in a dramatic manner. The recitatives often serve to advance the storyline and provide a connection between the arias and choruses.

5. Opening Chorus "Kommt, ihr Töchter, helft mir klagen" (Come, ye daughters, help me lament): The powerful opening chorus sets the tone for the entire composition. The double choir and orchestra create a majestic and sorrowful atmosphere, inviting the audience to reflect on the gravity of the Passion story.

6. St. Matthew Passion's Structure: The work is divided into two parts, each concluding with a chorale. The first part focuses on the events leading up to the crucifixion, while the second part reflects on the aftermath and the spiritual significance of Christ's sacrifice.

7. Use of Instruments: Bach employs a diverse array of instruments in the Matthäuspassion, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and continuo. This orchestral richness contributes to the expressive power of the work.

8. Performance Setting: Originally composed for a Good Friday service, the Matthäuspassion is designed for liturgical performance. The work is intended for both the concert hall and the church, reflecting Bach's dual role as a composer for both secular and sacred settings.

9. Passion Settings by Bach: The Matthäuspassion is one of two surviving passion settings by Bach, the other being the Johannespassion (St. John Passion). Both works showcase Bach's mastery of choral writing and his ability to convey deep emotional and theological themes through music.

10. Legacy: The St. Matthew Passion is considered one of the greatest achievements in Western classical music. Its profound spirituality, intricate structure, and emotional depth continue to captivate audiences and musicians centuries after Bach's time.

Bach's Matthäuspassion stands as a testament to his genius and his ability to convey profound theological and emotional themes through the medium of music.