JS Bach’s St John Passion got its first airing on Good Friday in 1724 at St Nicholas Church, in Leipzig. It’s not so much an oratorio as a musical drama, almost operatic in form and structure. The central figure is the Evangelist, who narrates the story of Christ’s arrest, trial, crucifixion, death and burial, including Peter’s threefold denial, constantly drawing on direct quotes from the other main characters – Jesus and Pilate.

Bach’s St John Passion at the Canberra International Music Festival. Photo © Peter Hislop

Interestingly, two key elements are omitted from the story – the roles of the two thieves crucified with Christ, and Christ’s resurrection, which is central to Christians’ belief in the promise of salvation.

But, far from the story finishing darkly, it concludes with messages of hope, faith and praise, albeit quietly and reverently.

For this performance the orchestral accompaniment was provided by Bach Akademie Australia, playing period instruments and led by Madeleine Easton, with a chorus of eight singers, all of whom had solo parts. Basses David Greco and Jeremy Kleeman played Pilate and Jesus respectively. An added voice was tenor, Andrew Goodwin, who played the...