Welcome

It is an absolute honour for me to be conducting this awe-inspiring work in a “re-imagination” that was originally designed to celebrate the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ Centenary in 2020. During Bach’s life, the St John Passion was an ever-evolving work, with several revisions and changes made by the composer. It’s exciting to maintain this tradition and to be able to incorporate reflections and voices from Australian composers, inspired by the majesty and power of Bach’s writing to reflect on events in their own lives. My first real encounter with this great work was during my studies in Hungary, when I was invited by a fellow student to be the soprano soloist in her father’s church choir’s Good Friday performance of the St John Passion in Haugesund, Norway. For a young Australian, so far from home, the experience was life changing – I was so moved by the power of the music, the collaboration of the choir and orchestra and, of course, the opportunity to perform it in a country of such beauty and such extremes. I was lucky enough to perform the soprano solos again in Oberstdorf, Germany and, since returning to Australia, I have prepared choirs for this work several times, as well as (hopefully) converting hundreds of high-school students to its power by conducting excerpts at a NSW Public Schools State Music Camp. For me, the St John Passion – from its opening chorus of restless foreboding to its final chorus of acceptance and peace – is a journey of discovery of the human condition experienced through unfathomably exquisite music. Thank you for joining us! Elizabeth Scott Music Director VOX

Acknowledgement of Country

Tarimi Nulay – Long time living here was commissioned for our Centenary year as a choral Acknowledgement of Country to commence all concerts in the season. It was premiered at the Dawn Chorus performance on the steps of the Sydney Opera House at the beginning of 2020 and we hope that this special piece will be part of our performances for many years to come. Deborah Cheetham and Matthew Doyle have created a work that explores a profound cultural and spiritual reflection of the land on which we sing.