As we get closer to the performance of the St John Passion, members are commenting that they are beginning to understand the work and the way in which Bach makes the drama of the story unfold.  It takes me back to the first time I sang the work, not ever having heard it, thirty years ago.  The rehearsals were at the start a bit of a grind.  Half the choir had sung it before, and those that had not were struggling to keep up.  Gradually, the newcomers caught up with the old hands and the music started to make sense.

Then came the first rehearsal when we began to put all the components together.  The WOW factor was incredible.  How did a composer in Bach’s day create such a compelling sense of drama with the resources at his disposal?  As we became more familiar with the music, the sense of magic became even greater, and the performance in Salisbury Cathedral was electrifying.

I have heard the work many times since, and have sung it a further three times.  Each time I marvel at the way the story comes to life and engages both performers and audience alike.

Next week we get to rehearse with the Evangelist, and then with the orchestra and eventually the other soloists.  We are very fortunate to be singing this work in the company of some illustrious musicians: soloists, orchestra and of course our inspired conductor, Carlos.  Performing such wonderful music with them will prove, I have no doubt, to be a truly memorable experience.