The St. Matthew Passion is full of short bursts of dramatic expression. In this episode, we explore two moments of reaction by an onlooking crowd. 

One of Bach's shortest and most surprising moments happens when Pontius Pilate asks the crowd which prisoner should be released -- Jesus, or Barrabas? The crowd's reply is as disturbing as it is musically shocking. 

Another moment happens later, after the earthquake and chaos immediately after Christ's death. After the frantic narration, the guard and crowds speak. But this moment is not one of pure terror, but rather sublime realization: "Truly, this was the Son of God." Bach's transparently gentle setting of this sentence is unforgettable.

An "A Moment of Bach" listener suggested the two topics for this episode! Do you want to suggest your own? https://amomentofbach.com/