by Guest Reviewer | Apr 22, 2025 | Ambassador thoughts, Choirs, Orchestras
Conducted by Rick Prakhoff
Vocal Soloists: Christopher Hillier, baritone; Jeremy Kleeman, bass-baritone; Simon Meadows, baritone; Jacqueline Porter, soprano; Timothy Reynolds, tenor; Sally-Anne Russell, mezzo-soprano; Christopher Watson, tenor
J.S. Bach’s St John Passion is heartland territory for both of these ensembles, and that was very clear in this accomplished and committed performance. Rick Prakhoff’s conducting displayed a strong conception of the work from the overarching architecture down to the small but telling details. The chorus has to take on several roles, with differing demands both technical and tonal, to which they responded with aplomb. The many turba scenes combined clarity with the sense of cumulative menace which Bach creates so effectively. The tricky “casting of lots” chorus was handled in a distinct, more mocking, manner from the “angry mob” choruses. The big choral movements were compelling from the whole ensemble, never losing their broad flow. The many chorale settings are as central here as in any of Bach’s works, and this was reflected in some very thoughtful renditions. The chorales ending each part were subtly contrasted, the tonal ambivalence of the first compared to the steadfast warmth of the closing moments of the whole Passion.
The outstanding array of vocal soloists was too extensive for detailed discussion here, but they were all of high standard and appropriate for their roles. If one must be singled out, it is Christopher Watson as the all-important Evangelist; his control, intensity and flexibility are nothing short of perfect. He was ably supported by an immaculate and sensitive continuo group of Melbourne Baroque Orchestra stalwarts. The whole MBO was in fine form, both the foundational string ensemble and the several wind and string soloists. For those of us old enough to remember performances of Bach’s Passions from many decades ago (worthy as they were in their time), it is a delight to hear even the more “exotic” instruments like oboe da caccia or viola d’amore in their true form, and played with such mastery and musicianship.
All in all, this was a very satisfying performance, from the well-observed details to a whole greater than the sum of its very fine parts.
Richard Excell
Christopher Watson | Melbourne Bach Choir | Melbourne Baroque Orchestra | Rick Prakhoff
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Melbourne Baroque Orchestra acknowledges the sovereignty of the Boon Wurrung and Woi Wurrung language groups of the Eastern Kulin Nations on whose unceded lands we perform and share our love of music. We acknowledge their Ancestors and Elders past and present.