Bach's St. John Passion for the Twenty-First Century: Musical and Theological Perspectives [Hardcover]

Since its composition and first performance in 1724, BachsSt. John Passionhas captured the spiritual and musical attention of musicians, audiences, and congregations. This bookexamines this monumental work from a twenty-first century perspective, providing a new and comprehensive examination of the music and libretto.

Michael Fuchs and Bradley Jenson explore the historical context of the work as well as its performance history and practice. They address important questions regarding the Gospel of John, Martin Luthers theology, and anti-Judaism and antisemitism in the libretto. Combining expert theological and musical analysis, as well as a new English translation, this bookis a useful resource for students, musicians, and scholars while being accessible to general audiences with a strong interest in the music of J.S. Bach, highlighting the composers compositional creativity.

Michael Fuchsis director of choral activities and associate professor of music at the University of Wisconsin, Superior. Dr. Fuchs is also the director of choral activities at First Lutheran Church in Duluth, Minnesota.
Rev. Bradley C. Jensonis an ordained minister for over thirty years. He is the author ofLuther and Bach on the Magnificat: For Advent and Christmas.

Michael Fuchs and Bradley Jenson offer a thoughtful, original, and updated perspective of the relevance and both the historical and contemporary importance of this enduring work. The scholar, amateur, and lover of J.S. Bachs music will find this book fulfilling. Earl Rivers, professor emeritus of conducting, University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music

An excellent discussion of the continued role and importance of this seminal work. It is an engaging mix of musical, historical, and theological information, thorough enough to please the serious Bach aficionado, while still remaining approachable to those who simply wish to know more about the topic. L.lÓF