ONE of the world’s greatest tenors, Ian Bostridge, is to sing the role of the Evangelist in Bach’s choral masterpiece St Matthew Passion at The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil on March 8 as part of a UK tour.

He joins the critically-acclaimed choir and period instrumentalists of Armonico Consort, conducted by Christopher Monks, in the dramatic story of betrayal and sacrifice, courage and conviction.

Ian said: “Bach’s St Matthew Passion is one of the greatest pieces of music in the Western repertory.”

It contains some of Bach’s most beautiful, evocative and dramatic music, from dance-like violin solos, to sorrowful arias and grief-stricken choruses. A host of soloists play the roles of individuals in the drama with the Evangelist being the main narrator of the story of the Passion of Christ.

Ian continues, “It brings a very human story alive for us and connects it to our deepest longings. It functions as a religious experience even for the non-religious. There are so many key moments but I especially love the aria with chorus, ‘Ich will bei meinem Jesu wachen’ (I will watch beside my Jesus)”, in which the emotionally charged music for the tenor is a contrast to the subdued, lullaby-like music given to the chorus.

St Matthew Passion was first performed on Good Friday in 1727 but, like much of Bach’s music, quickly became neglected after his death. It wasn’t until 1829 that it was revived and performed again by Felix Mendelssohn. It was written for use in a church service and, although around three hours long in today’s performances, there would originally have been other choral music, prayers and even a sermon in between the two parts!

Armonico Consort’s musicians play on instruments of the period giving a unique insight into how Bach imagined the work.

*Ian Bostridge and Armonico Consort perform Bach’s St Matthew Passion at The Octagon Theatre Yeovil on Wednesday 8 March. Call the box office for tickets.