A Singer’s Guide to Bach’s St. John Passion

This project explores selected movements from Bach’s St. John Passion through a performer-scholar lens, combining musical analysis with practical insights from the stage. Each study highlights a different aspect of Bach’s composition, from imitative structure and harmonic design to text painting, symbolism, and the interpretive demands placed on singers. Through several mediums (including annotated scores, recorded performances, and interviews with experienced artists), the project aims to construct a bridge between analysis and performance.

Project Introduction and Overview

Selected Movements

  • 36. "Die Jüden aber, dieweil es der Rüsttag war"

    Sound as Symbol in Bach’s Recitative

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  • 37. "O hilf, Christe, Gottes Sohn"

    Tracing Hymn Origins and Reiterations

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  • 38. "Darnach bat Pilatum Joseph von Arimathia"

    A Study of the Evangelist’s Storytelling and Narrative Voice

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  • 1. "Herr, unser Herrscher"

    Imitation as Narrative Force in Bach’s Opening Chorus

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  • 20. "Erwäge, wie sein blutgefärbter Rücken"

    Breath, Phrase, and Performance Practice in the Rainbow Aria

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  • 30. "Es ist vollbracht"

    Phrasing and Expression in Bach’s Most Intimate Aria

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