The St. Luke Passion, once attributed to J.S. Bach and numbered BWV 246, is now an anonymous "Passion" shrouded in mystery. Compared to the authentic works of Matthew and John, it's less stuffy and only about 70 minutes long, making it easy to enjoy and quite popular. It's magnificent and profound, having once been considered a Bach Passion, and Carl Orff's arrangement adds a sense of euphoria to its beauty. The use of the children's choir is particularly exquisite, even moving one to tears. I enjoy listening to this "Luke Passion" from time to time, but I haven't listened to the original "Matthew" and "John" Passions in years. The Orff-esque scale of this "Luke Passion" is also interesting from an auditory perspective, with the timpani's frenzied dance and the clanging of bells. (Please forgive me, as I am not a Christian.) *Slight damage to the obi and Japanese commentary.* "Originally a piece of unknown origin, Carl Orff and Illek worked together to shape it. (Omitted) It almost takes on the appearance of a blasphemous operetta. However, this deliberate absurdity might be Orff's black humor. In any case, let's not get caught up in the idea of 'restoring Bach's phantom Passion,' but rather enjoy it as the emergence of a new form of entertainment." (Rikkyo Ishihara) --- From the August 2000 issue -- Content (from the "CD Journal Review") ● Evangelist: Mark Clear ● Jesus: Julio Zannari ● Pilate: Ulrich Cord ● Peter: Stephen Barchor Others: Soldiers, Maidservants, Centurion (Repentant) ● Tölzer Knabenchor (Pony Pueri Children's Choir) ● Munich Symphony Orchestra ● Conductor: Douglas Bostock