Bach's St. John Passion for the Twenty-First Century

Since its first performance in 1724, J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion has captured the spiritual and musical attention of audiences and congregations. Combining expert theological and musical analysis, this booklooks at this monumental work from a twenty-first century perspective, providing a new English translation and a comprehensive examination.

Michael Fuchs is 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. Jenson is an ordained minister for over thirty years. He is the author of Luther and Bach on the Magnificat: For Advent and Christmas.

Foreword by Christoph Wolff Preface Chapter One The St. John Passion: Historical Context and 21st-Century Relevance Chapter Two Interpreting the St. John Passion Libretto for the 21st Century Chapter Three Performance History and Practice Chapter Four Bach's Musical Composition Chapter Five Responding to Questions About Antisemitism and Anti-Judaism in the St. John Passion Bibliography