St John Passion

On Palm Sunday, 14th April in Tallinn Kaarli (St Charles’) church, Glasperlenspiel Festival will present magnificent St John Passion, a great oratorio by Johann Sebastian Bach, which plays significant role in the life of the composer himself as well as in the oratorio genre and classical music of Europe. Written during Bach’s first Leipzig year, probably to prove Bach’s capacity for the position of musical director of the city, it was premiered on 7th April, 1724 at the Nicolaus Church. 300 years later, it still does not cease to astonish listeners with its intensity and dramatic plot. Passion narrates the most important events of Jesus life from Judas’ betrayal to the crucifixion and death. Multiple Estonian choirs and leading artists have joined forces to make this grandiose event happen. About 200 musicians will be on the stage conducted by maestro Andres Mustonen. This year’s newcomer on the stage is the handbell ensemble Arsis with its unique input. In addition to the choirs, Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta and soloists Anto Õnnis, Jaanika Kuusik, Annely Leinberg, Tõnis Kaumann and Alvar Tiisler will perform.