Telemann's Passion Oratorio, with the full title "Das seelige Erwägen
des bitteren Leidens und Sterbens Jesu Christi, Ein Passionsoratorium in
neun Betrachtungen" (Passion Oratorio: Blessed Contemplation of the
Bitter Suffering and Dying of Jesus Christ), may seem imposing when only looking at its title, but it's in fact a delightful work that was once one of Telemann's most popular compositions. It held a special place in its time, being perhaps the most frequently performed work of its kind in Lutheran Germany during the 18th century. First performed in Hamburg in 1728, and possibly admired by Bach himself, who may have performed it in Leipzig between 1732-1735, this Good Friday piece carries historical significance.
While Bach composed only a few Passions, Telemann, known for his prolific output, created some sixty settings, about two dozen of which survive today. His dedication to producing one Passion a year during his 46-year tenure as Kantor in Hamburg underscores his prolificacy. Telemann's creative reservoir extended far beyond passions to include operas, orchestral ouvertures-suites, and concertos, demonstrating his versatility. His music, like Vivaldi's, maintained a consistently high quality, reflecting creativity on an industrial scale, yet always tailored to the tastes of his audience.
Telemann's approach to the Passion is distinctive. As a composer, he not only provided the music, but also wrote the words. Coming from a family of pastors, he was well-positioned to reflect on the gospel story. Unlike some composers who added drama to their Passions, Telemann, drawing on his vast operatic experience, kept his nine meditations expressive yet free of theatricality. The composition is a mixture of arias, recitatives, and simple chorales for congregational participation. The arias are surprisingly lively - in contrast to Bach's solemnity, Telemann's work is characterized by a lyrical and sometimes upbeat tone until the final meditations.
Telemann's masterful orchestration is a highlight of the two-hour performance. From the chalumeaux in the opening Sinfonia to pairs of flutes, oboes, bassoons and horns, each instrument contributes to the expressive narrative. The horns, in particular, add weight to the more dramatic sections toward the end of the work. In sum, Telemann's Passion Oratorio is a testament to his musical genius, blending imagination and orchestral brilliance to create a compelling and accessible exploration of the Passion story.
Listen to: Collegium Vocale Salzburg
L'Orfeo Barockorchester
Michi Gaigg, Dirigentin
Maria Ladurner, Sopran
Virgil Hartinger, Tenor
Markus Volpert, Bariton
Stefan Zenkl, Bariton
Choral Masterworks