Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Album: Bach, Matthäus Passion, (Decca)

Anna Picard
Sunday 04 April 2010 00:00 BST
Comments

Leipzig owns the St Matthew Passion.

Bach's masterpiece was first performed at the Thomaskirche and although the 19th century revival began in Berlin, Mendelssohn and the Gewandhausorchester cemented its position in the canon. Riccardo Chailly's new recording nods to the weight of tradition yet the purposeful, rosy, Victorian bloom of his orchestra is lightly applied. Tempi are fleet, lilting; the attack of the local boys' choirs sharp and delicate; the voices of the soloists cool and direct.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in