Georg Philipp Telemann: St John Passion TWV 5:18 1733

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and stirring narrative of the Passion of Christ with Georg Philipp Telemann's "St John Passion TWV 5:18," a masterful work composed in 1733 and brought to life in this 2012 recording. This album, released under the Amati label, offers a comprehensive and moving interpretation of the Passion story as told in the Gospel of John. With a duration of 1 hour and 53 minutes, this recording provides an extensive and detailed exploration of Telemann's powerful oratorio.

The album features a rich tapestry of choral and solo vocal performances, accompanied by the exquisite musicianship of the Kammerchor der Biederitzer Kantorei and the Chambermusik Potsdam. The ensemble, led by notable soloists Zabanoff, Vieweg, Wagner, and Diebschlag, delivers a performance that is both historically informed and deeply resonant. The work is structured into a series of choruses, recitatives, arias, and chorales, each contributing to the overarching narrative of Christ's final days.

Telemann's "St John Passion" is a testament to his compositional genius, blending dramatic storytelling with profound spiritual reflection. The album opens with the stirring chorus "Du lässest uns durchs Blut" and unfolds through a series of evocative arias and recitatives, culminating in the poignant chorale "Komm, erwünschte Todesnacht." Throughout, Telemann's music captures the essence of the Passion story, from the betrayal and trial of Jesus to his crucifixion and burial.

This recording is a treasure for lovers of Baroque music and those seeking a deeper understanding of the Passion narrative. Telemann's intricate compositions and the ensemble's impeccable performance make this album a standout in the genre, offering a rich and engaging listening experience.

1 januari 2012

2011 Rudolf R. Bayer

About Georg Philipp Telemann

Georg Philipp Telemann, born in Magdeburg in 1681, stands as one of the most prolific composers in music history, with over 3,000 surviving works to his name. A true polymath of the Baroque era, Telemann was a multi-instrumentalist and a master of various musical styles and genres. His compositions span operas, oratorios, cantatas, concertos, and chamber music, reflecting his deep understanding and appreciation of both sacred and secular music.

Telemann's influence was immense, and he was held in high regard by his contemporaries, including Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. Bach, in fact, named his son Carl Philipp Emanuel after Telemann, a testament to the esteem in which he held his friend. Telemann's music is renowned for its incorporation of diverse national styles, a testament to his cosmopolitan outlook and musical curiosity.

Self-taught in music, Telemann's journey was one of passion and dedication. He served as a Kapellmeister, Kantor, and director of musical societies in various courts and cities, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of his time. His legacy endures, celebrated for its versatility, innovation, and sheer volume, making Telemann a pivotal figure in the transition from the Baroque to the Classical period.