We continue our ‘Bach spring’ with a special concert of three mature sacred masterpieces. The Easter Oratorio, reflecting on the events in the tomb immediately after the Resurrection, was one of Bach’s favourite pieces, originally composed in 1725 and revived for Easter services in Leipzig at least three times.  We perform his last version, with important and intriguing changes to that normally heard.  

The Mass in A major, like the B minor Mass, is a compilation of favourite movements drawn from his cantatas, though its scoring with two flutes and strings gives it a charming, intimate character.  The Whitsun cantata ‘O ewiges Feuer’ starts with one of Bach’s greatest choruses, a dramatic portrayal of the tongues of fire and includes a beautiful lullaby aria, with flutes and muted strings.

Peter Holman’s vivid and authoritative performances of Baroque music have delighted audiences at SVF and further afield for many years.  In this concert he directs his regular team of period-instrument players and choral singers. Three of our distinguished regular soloists are joined by the exciting young mezzo soprano Helen Charlston.

‘Peter Holman, directing from the harpsichord, inspired a lithe and enjoyable performance’ The Observer