The life and ministry of St Paul, a key biblical figure, are dramatised in Mendelssohn’s first oratorio. Following his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul becomes a powerful preacher of Christ’s teachings, and goes on to play a pivotal role in the establishment of the early Church.
St Paul deserves wider recognition in the UK, alongside Mendelssohn’s two other great choral works, Elijah and Lobgesang. Following in the tradition of Bach and Handel, the choral settings - by turns energetic and moving - provide commentary on the unfolding narrative sung by soloists.
St Paul was well-received at its premiere in Düsseldorf in 1836, and its popularity on the continent has endured, but it is infrequently performed here in the UK. This rare treat is presented in the original German and accompanied by period ensemble, creating a vocal and instrumental sound faithful to the style of performance that would have been given during Mendelssohn’s lifetime. The audience can look forward to a concert that will focus on the essential drama of the story, bringing the characters to life and lending expression to the varied roles played by the choir.
