COMPOSERS: Bach
LABELS: DG
WORKS: St John Passion
PERFORMER: Evelyn Lear (soprano), Hertha Töpper (contralto), Ernst Haefliger (tenor), Hermann Prey (baritone), Kieth Engen (bass); Munich Bach Choir & Orchestra/Karl Richter
CATALOGUE NO: 453 007-2 ADD (1964)
Karl Richter recorded this version of Bach’s St John Passion in 1964, when his powers were at their height. The Munich Bach Choir was a large one of some 100 voices, but they are so well rehearsed that we soon forget what might have sounded unwieldy under another baton. The solo line-up is variable, with the strongest contribution coming from Ernst Haefliger (Evangelist) and Kieth Engen, who sings the bass arias and the two smaller bass roles. The orchestra provides strong support throughout as well as providing several excellent obbligato players. Nicholas Anderson
Bach: St John Passion
Karl Richter recorded this version of Bach’s St John Passion in 1964, when his powers were at their height. The Munich Bach Choir was a large one of some 100 voices, but they are so well rehearsed that we soon forget what might have sounded unwieldy under another baton. The solo line-up is variable, with the strongest contribution coming from Ernst Haefliger (Evangelist) and Kieth Engen, who sings the bass arias and the two smaller bass roles. The orchestra provides strong support throughout as well as providing several excellent obbligato players. Nicholas Anderson
Our rating
3
Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:28 pm