Page 403 - Liverpool Philharmonic 22-23 Season Coverage Book

Staples is outstanding. With a captivating presence and angelic tone, he provides a believable
and mesmerising Evangelist. In tandem, baritone Mark Stone anchors the narrative with depth
and poise to portray Judas, Peter, Jesus, Pilate and Pontifex. You could listen to just these two
voices in isolation and still have a wonderful evening.

Likewise, Bernhard’s soprano leaves little to be desired. With crisp diction and strong notes, she
holds the audience in a trance, particularly for the Recitative and aria (Alto). Complementing the
quartet, Rudge conveys the emotion of Magdalen beautifully.

Taxing on the orchestra, Bach’s work demands attention. It is a long piece, running at 140
minutes and they manage to provide continuity in the performance despite there being a 20-
minute interval. Manze blends into the musicians as he conducts – it adds something to the
experience that he isn’t something the audience necessarily notice on stage – he leads with a
quiet, confident dignity.

Ambitious, arresting and emotive, the Liverpool Philharmonic do St Matthew’s Passion justice.
They deliver all of the sorrow in the soul and conflict of the chorale that Bach intended.

For future productions and performances, view Liverpool Philharmonic’s
website https://www.liverpoolphil.com/

Reviewer: Ezzy LaBelle

Reviewed: 6th April 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★