Classical Concerts at

Muziekgebouw

St Matthew Passion

The St Matthew Passion is one of the best-known and most impressive compositions by Bach. Bach’s interpretation of the story of the Passion of Jesus is brilliant, compelling and moving. The traditional performances by the Bach Society are known all over the world, and this year they will be led by one of today’s best Baroque conductors: Masaaki Suzuki.One of today’s best Baroque conductors“There are few musicians who know Bach as well as conductor, organist and harpsichordist Masaaki Suzuki. He is noted as an important representative of historical performance practice and as a true Bach specialist. He has recorded nearly all Bach’s choral works with his famous ensemble Bach Collegium Japan. In 2005, Suzuki was a guest conductor of the St Matthew Passion with the Bach Society. Twenty years later, he is returning with even more experience and a deeper vision of Bach’s masterpiece. He says, “J.S. Bach had maybe four opportunities in his lifetime to perform the St Matthew Passion, but I have performed this over hundred times all over the world. Despite this fact, it never became something gentle or amicable, always asking me to delve deeper, desire stronger, seek further beauty, and for my full devotion. What can I do more? Yet again, I shall pray and perform with all my heart and soul.”