J S Bach Jesu, meine Freude
Arvo Pärt Passio Domini Nostri Jesu Christi secundum Joannem
Arvo Pärt, who celebrated his 90th birthday in September 2025, is possibly the greatest living composer and certainly the most performed. His style is beloved by millions for its tranquility and transparency, combining medieval and modern elements into a soundworld known as ‘tintinnabuli’, Latin for ‘little bells’.
The iconic work Passio, setting Saint John’s gospel account of the trial and crucifixion of Jesus, is perhaps the most genuine example of Pärt’s tintinnabuli style. The events are narrated by an ethereal evangelist quartet of singers while the parts of Pilate and Jesus are sung by two soloists. They are accompanied by a small chamber group of violin, cello, oboe and bassoon, as well as organ and choir, in a transfixing meditative minimalist experience.
Jesu, meine Freude opens the programme. Unique in its complex symmetrical structure juxtaposing hymn and biblical texts, and with movements featuring a variety of styles and vocal textures, it is undoubtedly the most impressive of Bach’s six 18th-century motets.
Bath Bach Choir
The Facade Ensemble
Benedict Collins Rice conductor
Tickets: £20 | U18 & students: £10
Available from Bath Box Office soon.
Concert venue:
Christ Church, Julian Road, Bath BA1 2RH
The Facade Ensemble at Cadogan Hall
