Oster-Oratorium: commentary

The Easter tradition at the time of J.S. Bach

Whoever says Easter, says Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750). Religious or not, for many, his musical versions of the Biblical Passion are part of an annual tradition. Bach therefore composed two of the greatest liturgical works for Good Friday with his St Matthew and St John Passion. Less well known and comprehensive is his Oster oratorio, intended for Easter Sunday. There, the suffering from the passions gives way to joyful tones: exuberant choirs and jubilant soloists sing of the miracle of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Commentary by Aurélie Walschaert