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  ST JOHN PASSION

Stratford Choral Society at Holy Trinity Church, Stratford ****

Whereas Bach’s St Matthew Passion takes its time, reflecting upon the events of the Crucifixion, his St John Passion hustles us straight into the terrible drama, tight and concise as it involves us in the narrative, and Saturday’s performance from the Stratford Choral Society responded tautly and expressively.

The orchestral opening, splendidly delivered by the period-performance Instruments of Time and Truth, whispered with gripping urgency, its tread leading forward to the powerful choral entry. Many multiples larger than Bach’s own choral forces in Leipzig, the SCS nevertheless sang with commendable lightness and balance under the gently authoritative conducting of Oliver Neal Parker

This choral input of a very high standard was maintained throughout the evening, with the many chorales, originally reaching out to the Lutheran congregation, particularly effective (incidentally, John Bawden’s detailed programme-note gave an admirable account of the work’s context).

Pivotal in any presentation of the Passion is the role of the Evangelist, traditionally a tenor, and here Nathan Vale was outstanding, engaged and engaging, and colourfully delivering Bach’s word-painting such as “bitterly”, “scourged” and “crucified”.  Against this vivid narrative Alexander Ashworth was an imposing Christus, singing with quiet dignity and an almost otherworldly serenity. The other four vocal soloists made efficient contributions.

We have to congratulate SCS on securing this wonderful orchestra. Always alert to this adept conductor and to each other, they delivered some wonderful cameos, including duetting oboes of differing timbres, pastel flutes, viola d’amore and viola da gamba, and a deliciously gorgeous plucked solo accompaniment to “Come ponder, O my soul”.

There were riches galore enjoyed by the packed audience, but one final offer of food for thought. Jesus’ last concern was for his mother; today we all woke (if minus an hour’s sleep) to Mothering Sunday.

Christopher Morley


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