Type: Choral
Soloists: Juliane Banse, Michael Chance, Ian Bostridge
Conductor: Sir Simon Rattle
Choir: Rias Chamber Choral
Orchestra: Philharmonie Berlin, Germany
Location: Phiharmonie de Paris, France
Year: 2002

This choral work was first performed in 1724; Bach transforms the Passion story from the Gospel of John into something vividly theatrical. Simon Rattle delivers an explosive and urgent chorus which is almost operatic, while the arias pause the action to reflect on grief and redemption. The chorales invite listeners to participate emotionally, and the congregation itself is inside the drama. For many, this is a sacred composition and a profound exploration of suffering, faith, and humanity.