Bach St John Passion – in English | Hackney Singers concert

On Saturday 28 March, the Hackney Singers present J.S. Bach’s St John Passion – a timeless work of faith and humanity, performed in the stunning surroundings of Hackney Church. The performance will be in English.

Under the direction of Dan Ludford-Thomas, the choir will be joined by organist James Orford, and Oliver John Ruthven on harpsichord, alongside a lineup of exceptional soloists and a twenty-player period instrument orchestra to bring Bach’s profound retelling of the Passion story vividly to life. Expect moments of delicate beauty and awe-inspiring chorus work, from the haunting opening chorus to the final notes of peace and redemption.

This performance offers a rare opportunity to hear the Hackney Singers – one of London’s leading community choirs – taking on a work that demands both technical mastery and expressive nuance. With singers drawn from East London and beyond, the Hackney Singers have built a reputation for performances that unite local spirit with musical excellence.

Hackney Church (formerly St John at Hackney) provides the perfect setting: its magnificent acoustic promises an evening that is both intimate and spectacular. Whether you are an enthusiast of choral music, a lover of Bach, or simply seeking an inspiring live experience in the heart of Hackney this spring, this performance will transport you.

Soloists

Soprano: Ellen Mawhinney

Alto: Helen Meyerhoff

Tenor (Evangelist) Ben Vonberg-Clark

Tenor: Ashley Catling

Bass: (Jesus) Michael Burke

Bass: (Arias and Pilate) Daniel Tate