Bach’s St. John Passion remains one of the most deeply affecting and riveting masterworks in this genre. It is a rich, highly dramatic portrayal of the Biblical passion story using soloists, chorus and a colorful baroque orchestra, featuring rarely heard archaic instruments including the lute and viola da gamba. The radiant purity of sound in this emotionally expressive work shines in poignant arias, powerful choruses and gentle, reflective chorales.