Credits:

Ryuuichi Higuchi, Meiji Gakuin Bach Academy Ensemble

Description:

The 20th anniversary performance of the Meiji Gakuin Bach Academy and Ryuichi Higuchi, whose motto is "live research and practice (performance)", have released their second CD of the "John Passion". There are four different versions of the "John Passion," of which only Draft II and Draft IV can be fully restored. The second CD was recorded at Kioi Hall in March 2022 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the foundation, and Draft IV was used. The basso continuo of Bach's Passions is basically played by organ, cello, violone (contrabass), and bassoon, but in this Draft IV, harpsichord (or two) and contrabassoon are used in addition, aiming for a richer sound, which is one of the several features of this CD.Commentary on the compositions by Higuchi? I. About the Scriptures recited by the evangelist - Sources of free verse - Existence of four different manuscripts and the importance of manuscript II (1725) - Contents of the "John Passion" Universal Music/IMS