A brief biography of James MacMillan from the Boston Symphony' 'Classical Companion'. James MacMillans "St. John Passion" is performed this week by the Boston Symphony under Sir Colin Davis. Sir Colin requested this major work from one of his favorite contemporary composers in part to commemorate the conductors own 80th birthday; he led the premiere in London in April 2008. The piece is a largescale work in two parts for chorus, orchestra, and baritone solo, building on the great traditional Passions of Bach in a dramatic setting, both traditional and modern, of the Passion narrative from the Gospel of John. These are the American premiere performances.
Hats off to the BSO for programming this piece and Sir Colin.
bostonmoores 2 years ago