Johannespassion (2007)

"Carus has used its innovative CD label to restore the name and reputation of Gottfried August Homilius (1714-85), a Saxon composer who studied at Leipzig with the Nikolaikirche organist Johann Schneider (where he probably took part in performances under Bach). In 1755 he became Kantor at the Kreuzkirche, Dresden's main church, but it was destroyed by fire in 1760. Homilius then spent the rest of his career working with the Kreuzchor in its temporary home at the magnificent Frauenkirche, and was a prolific and accomplished figure in Dresden's musical life. Homilius's St John Passion (dating from the early 1770s) is sung with precise fervour by the modernday descendants of the Kreuzchor, and is given excellent, stylish support by the Dresden Baroque Orchestra. The arias are predominantly in a light early classical style, with elegance preferred to dramatic intensity, but the turbae choruses are finely crafted and recitatives are intelligently delivered." (David Vickers, Gramphone) Dubbele 10 op ClassicsToday!