Passionate about St. Matthew Passion

Oriana’s third season for 2026 is something more than ‘ordinarily’ special. It’s something ‘extra’ special. And to be able to perform it for our many loyal supporters, followers and friends will be an honour, and a joy, for every participating choir member.

When you’re part of a choir that decides, for the first time, to take on the challenge of learning, and rehearsing to performance-ready standard, a work of the magnitude and reputation of Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, you realise very quickly that you are dealing with something that is much, much more than just a great choral work. Indeed, this masterpiece is one of the greatest musical works ever conceived in the Western canon.

The Passion is a work of great complexity, but also great beauty and emotional power. As its title suggests, it is the story of Christ’s arrest, trial and crucifixion as recorded in the Gospel of St. Matthew in the New Testament. Bach managed to masterfully capture the drama, pathos and emotion of the story, and present it in a musical setting, the power and beauty of which is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

It really is a privilege to be a part of performing this astounding creation. Some of our number, sadly and for various reasons, have had to withdraw from the season, and I feel sad for them, because those of us who have been able to continue and persevere are coming to realise just how very special the St. Matthew Passion really is. Over the past twenty years, Oriana has been fortunate to perform some of the great choral works – Mozart’s Requiem; Handel’s Messiah; Vivaldi’s Gloria; Jenkins’ The Armed Man; Mendelssohn’s Elijah, to name a few. Bach’s St. Matthew Passion is up there with the greatest.

If you’re a music lover and a believer, this work will touch you deeply. But you don’t have to be a believer to appreciate the beauty, the power, the emotional impact of this work. It speaks to anyone who loves beautiful music. First performed nearly three hundred years ago, Bach’s St. Matthew Passion today has lost none of its power and relevance.

With maestro Kim Kirkman conducting choir and orchestra, and featured soloists Michelle Bull, soprano; Anne Fulton, alto; Liam Jackson, tenor; and Jason Barry-Smith, bass; this will be an Oriana career highlight, and a very special, not-to-be-missed musical experience.

Ian Rix

September 15, 2026.

J.S.Bach St. Matthew Passion

Sunday 8 November, 2:00pm

Venue 114, Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina

For bookings and information, go to www.oriana.org.au