zoom_in Click to enlarge

St. Luke Passion (Penderecki)

▲ ▼

description St. Luke Passion (Penderecki) Overview

The St. Luke Passion is a large-scale sacred work by Polish composer Krzysztof Penderecki for narrator, vocal soloists, choruses, children's choir, and orchestra. Premiered in 1966 at Münster Cathedral, it recounts Christ's Passion chiefly through the Latin Gospel according to Luke while incorporating other liturgical texts. The score combines clusters, unconventional vocal and instrumental sonorities, spoken narration, chant references, and more traditional tonal symbols.

help St. Luke Passion (Penderecki) FAQ

Which Gospel does Penderecki's St. Luke Passion use?

The narrative comes chiefly from the Latin text of the Gospel according to Luke. Penderecki also incorporated material from other biblical and liturgical sources, including the Psalms and the Stabat Mater.

Why was the 1966 premiere of the St. Luke Passion politically significant?

The work received its premiere in Münster Cathedral during celebrations marking the cathedral's 700th anniversary. A major explicitly Christian composition by a Polish composer attracted particular attention because Poland was then governed by a communist state.

What performers are required for Penderecki's St. Luke Passion?

The score uses a narrator, soprano, baritone and bass soloists, mixed choirs, a boys' choir, and a large orchestra. The Evangelist's account is spoken by the narrator rather than sung in the manner of Bach's Passions.

Does the St. Luke Passion sound like Penderecki's Threnody?

It uses some of the sonoristic devices associated with Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima, including dense clusters and unusual instrumental colors. The Passion also incorporates chant, tonal reference points, and recurring pitch structures suited to its sacred drama.

swap_horiz

Looking for St. Luke Passion (Penderecki) alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward