Merriweather sings the role of “Pilate.” Trinity ensembles join forces with the Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys of Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue and New York Baroque Incorporated to present Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, one of the quintessential masterpieces of western classical music. The Passion According to St. Matthew, BWV 244, is a dramatic integration of scripture, new poetry, and great hymns of the Lutheran tradition. Bach’s sublime setting creates a portrayal of the Passion that is both profoundly human and divine.
Bach’s St. John Passion is an artistic triumph, not only for its music, but the brilliance with which Bach set the Passion narrative. In this premiere of Madeleine Marshall’s new English translation of this masterpiece, the expressive words of the Passion shine through for Anglophone audiences, giving new life to the piece whose imagery, intensity, and ardor has inspired audiences, musicians, and composers through the ages.
Merriweather sings the role of Jesus.