Ithaca College

St. John Passion by J. S. Bach Sunday, April 27 3:00 p.m. Ford Hall, James J. Whalen Center for Music

Ithaca College Choir, Madrigal Singers, and Chamber Orchestra directed by Lawrence Doebler with faculty soloists soprano Patrice Pastore, mezzo-soprano Kelly Samarzea, tenor David Parks, baritone Randie Blooding, cellist Elizabeth Simkin, and harpsichordist William Cowdery.

Choir rehearsing for Passion

The story of Jesus's arrest, trial, and crucifixion has been a recurring theme in music over the centuries. Originally, the passion texts were read to serve as a remembrance and a way to reinforce Christ's teachings. By the 13th century, reading had given way to chanting by a single singer. Over the next four centuries musical resources became more plentiful; one of the results was Bach's dramatic and richly textured composition.

"Bach's St. John Passion is one of music's great religious works," Doebler says. "It is an astonishingly vital, energetic, and honest portrayal of this significant historic event."

Currently in his 25th year at the College, Doebler is a professor of music performance. In addition to serving as director of choral ensembles, he teaches conducting, choral techniques, and choral literature. He is currently the music director of the Cayuga Vocal Ensemble and has served as the director of music at churches in Cleveland, St. Louis, Madison, and Ithaca.

For more information on Ithaca College concerts, visit www.ithaca.edu/concerts or call (607) 274-3717.