The Amsterdam Mixed Choir sings Bach's St John Passion

Passion for singing

The Amsterdam Mixed Choir is an experienced amateur choir of 130 singers and performs 2 to 3 times a year in the Concertgebouw. In addition to well-known major oratorios such as the 'St. Matthew Passion' (Bach), 'Requiem' (Verdi, Mozart) and the 'Messiah' (Händel), the repertoire also often includes more modern works, such as Jenkins, Britten, Rutter, Szymanowski and Vasks. The Amsterdam Mixed Choir has been around for over 90 years. Under the inspiring leadership of conductor Paul Valk, this choir combines musical quality with a passion for singing.

Genius piece of music

Bach composed the 'St. John Passion' in 1723, in his first years as cantor of the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. In Bach's St John Passion, the emphasis is not on suffering (unlike the 'St. Matthew Passion' in which 'the tormented heart trembles'). Jesus never begs, doubts, grieves, despairs, or is wrong because his disciples have fallen asleep. He has everything under control and is not crucified, but allows himself to be crucified. The 'John Passion' is a triumphal piece, a song of jubilation, an expression of faith and joy. A brilliant piece of music that brings hope for the future in the broadest sense of the word.