Conversations with Tyler
Masaaki Suzuki on Interpreting Bach
Feb 21, 2024
Masaaki Suzuki, a renowned conductor and founder of the Bach Collegium Japan, shares his insights on interpreting Bach's music. He discusses the innovative storytelling in Bach's St. John's Passion and reflects on how his Calvinist background shapes his interpretations. Suzuki also delves into the appreciation of Bach in Japan, the cultural differences in performing his works, and his thoughts on Glenn Gould’s renditions. He highlights his journey with classical music, from significant recordings to upcoming projects, including Handel's oratorio and organ concerts.
56:38
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Quick takeaways
- Bach's St. John's Passion was innovative and dramatic, shocking the traditional passion tradition.
- Suzuki's Calvinist background influences his musical interpretation of Bach, valuing cultural and religious contributions.
Deep dives
The Innovation of Bach's St. John's Passion
In Bach's time, the passion tradition involved Bible readings in the liturgy, but Bach's St. John's Passion was a dramatic musical experience that shocked everyone. The structure of the choral work in the passion was also unique, with the choir performing multiple functions. Masaki Suzuki, the podcast guest, views St. John's Passion as a sacred work rather than a Christian or Lutheran work, allowing the music to be appreciated in different ways. Suzuki's Calvinist background influences his approach to Bach's music, as Calvin valued cultural activity and inspired musical activity in the world. Bach's move to Leipzig was driven by his desire to contribute more to the Lutheran church.
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