Johann Sebastian Bach's St John Passion Genesis, Transmission, and Meaning [Hardcover]

This book (published in German by B?renreiter in 1988 and now available in English translation for the first time) is a comprehensive guide to the genesis, transmission, structure, meaning, and performance considerations of Bach'sSt John Passion. One of Bach's most fascinating works, its text demonstrates a profound understanding of St John's Gospel.

Preface
1. Genesis
Introduction. Did Bach compose a Passion before 1724?
1. Version I (1724)
2. Version II (1725)
3. Version III (c. 1730)
4. Version IV (c. 1749)
5. Score A
2. Transmission
1. The lost original score X (1724?)
2. The revised score (source A, c. 1739-1749)
3. The original parts: Introduction; Set I; Set II; Set III; Set IV; Parts no longer extant
3. Meaning
1. Protestant settings of the Passion
2. The text of the St John Passion: a. The depiction of the Passion in the Gospel according to St John; b. The Gospel text; c. The chorale verses; d. The free poetry
3. Bach's music: a. The setting of the biblical narrative; b. The chorale movements; c. The choruses; d. The arias and ariosos
4. Problms associated with the overall formal design and the different versions
5. Performance practice: a. General remarks; b. The execution of the continuo; c. Specific problems
Appendices: Problematical Points
Appendix I The participation of transverse flutes in Version I
Appendix II The reconstruction of Movement 33 in Version I
Appendix III The chronology of the Passions Bach performed in Leipzig
Appendix IV The problem of symmetry in Bach's work
Bibliography
Picture Credits
Text of the St John Passion (German & English)

Alfred D?rris one of the principal editors of the Neue Bach Ausgabe in which he edited Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier. He is the author of the standard work in German on Bach's cantatas. (An English translation of this book, by Richard D.P. Jones, is in progress.) He holds honorary lҦ