J.S. Bach: St John Passion

HCO & Somnium Ensemble – J.S. Bach: St John Passion

J.S. Bach’s St John Passion is a tale of guilt and innocence and of courage and fear at acting according to one’s beliefs. Bach and the unknown librettist open up a view of the gospel that is baroquely rich and strikingly painful. 

The passion’s dramatic effect is achieved particularly through the unity of its musical material. Along the way of the cross, intimate chorales offer a respite and a chance to ask for the meaning of the story here and now.

Somnium Ensemble and Helsinki Chamber Orchestra are led by the orchestra’s principal conductor, James Kahane on Good Friday. Somnium Ensemble, winner of Yle’s record of the year in 2019, gets a chance to continue absorbing in early music and major vocal works. Helsinki Chamber Orchestra emphasises the importance of chamber musicianship and the individual creative responsibility of its players.

A dynamic group of soloists includes renowned and promising singers. The performance is a collaboration with Eurajoki Bel Canto Festival.

Performers:

Annami Hylkilä, soprano

Anu Ontronen, alto

Kalle Virtanen, tenor

Aapo Korhonen, tenor (Evangelist)

Niklas Spångberg , bass (Jesus)

Veikko Vallinoja, bass (Pilate)

Conductor James Kahane

Somnium Ensemble, coach Elisa Huovinen

Helsinki Chamber Orchestra

Temppeliaukio Church

15.4.2022 at 19.00

Tickets 25/35€ from Holvi Shop, duration 2 h