SOME OF the UK’s finest musicians will arrive in Astwood Bank to work with Redditch Choral Society to perform one of the greatest choral works ever written tomorrow (Saturday, June 7).
The choir will work alongside soloists, James Robinson (Evangelist), Peter Wilde-Willcock (Jesus), Katie Leaver (soprano) and Eleanor O’Driscoll (mezzo-soprano) at the event, as well as an orchestra of professional musicians, including cellist, Peter Adams who is a world-leading expert in baroque continuo.
The event takes place at Astwood Bank Church (St Matthias and St George) at 7.30pm.
Bach’s ‘powerful masterpiece’
Bach completed his powerful masterpiece, St John Passion, shortly before his death and its raw, sometimes chilling, expressiveness describes the days of anguish leading to Christ’s crucifixion.
People do not need to be religious to appreciate this monumental work though.
A word from the conductor
Conductor, Emily Tyrrell, said this cornerstone of choral repertoire can move anyone.
“St John Passion is one of the world’s great musical assets.
“It can be likened to the paintings of Caravaggio or the writings of Shakespeare in its artistic value.
“Like many great works, it is designed to ‘get under your skin’.
“Bach intends the listener to feel uncomfortable – and yet the music is also unfathomably beautiful – that is Bach’s genius!
“I think conducting a work like this must be similar to holding up some glassware on the Antiques Roadshow – I must allow the beauty of the work to speak for itself, without getting in the way, whilst also making sure I don’t drop it!
“This is a funny but accurate analogy of my role in the performance, I think.
“It takes enormous amounts of time, energy and money to stage such a monumental piece, but the reward of bringing something so special to the local community is well worth the effort.”
More than 60 years of music
Redditch Choral Society has a rich history of over 60 years of bringing the finest choral repertoire to local audiences.
Tickets (£15/£10 for students) are available on Ticket Source at www.ticketsource.co.uk/redditchchoralsociety or by calling 07971 238025. Visit the Redditch Choral Society Facebook page for more information.
