Customer Reviews

Bach: Matthaus-Passion, BWV 244 (St. Matthew's Passion)

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Most of today's celebrated recordings (Herreweghe, Gardiner, Koopman, Harnoncourt) of the St Matthew Passion can be characterized as light, articulated, 'dansant' and fast as opposed to the older ones, which came forth out of a strong tradition of romantic playing (with Klemperer as the most 'legato' reading of all times).

Both interpretations have its own assets: the modern - more authentic - ones come across more subtle to the listeren, where the delicacy of the music stands out. The listener is entering a world of purity. A world of unembroidered devoutness - and at other times also of light and energy.

On the other hand we can get carried away by the warm, slow and grand waves of the chorals of a romantic interpretation of the 50's or 60's.

The unique quality of the Corboz reading is that it kind of combines these two qualities: it's a romantic reading, but with a strong drive, vivid and at times extremely powerful. Not all soloists may be 'perfect', but the way Corboz renders 'Wir setzen uns mit Tränen nieder' is simply astonishing. If you already own both a romantic and an 'authentic' Matthäus, this reading is definitely a very interesting addition to your collection. And if you still have to buy your first copy, and you find it hard to choose between 'modern' and 'old-fashioned', buy this one. It's dramatic, powerful and real!

After hearing Corboz's rendering some years ago when I attended a music school, I've searched and listended through a lot of Matthaüs Passions before I finally found it again. And it was worth the effort, this piece is performed with much more passion and authority than all the other renderings I listended to, it's absolutely beautiful!

You will not regret owning this special piece, it's one of my most prized musical experiences, I love it!