Following sold out performances of Messiah during Christmas last year, the Irish Baroque Orchestra and the National Chamber Choir, two of the most distinguished music ensembles in the country, join forces for the first time to present this much loved St John Passion, at a time of year in which its powerful message will have added resonances, promising an uplifting seasonal and musical experience.
The fresh invigorating vitality of period instruments and chamber forces reveal this much-loved work in all its original colour and splendour.

Since its inception in 1996, the Irish Baroque Orchestra has become a beacon of excellence in Ireland. The Irish Times has described it as "one of the brightest stars in Ireland’s concert life". They bring back to life repertoire from the 17th and 18th Century unveiling the true colours of well-known masterpieces. IBO counts amongst its members some of the most talented young musicians in the international music scene. In 2006, internationally renowned violinist Monica Huggett was appointed artistic director. Her leadership has taken the orchestra to international acclaim, as witness their reception at the Isabella Steward Gartner Museum in Boston in 2008.

The National Chamber Choir of Ireland is widely regarded as Ireland’s most distinguished choir. It is celebrated both in Ireland and internationally for its fresh and innovative sound. In 2008, the internationally celebrated and grammy-award winning conductor Paul Hillier joined the National Chamber Choir of Ireland as Artistic Director and Chief Conductor. The National Chamber Choir is made up of extraordinary vocalists drawn from the ranks of Europe’s leading choral singers. Through collaboration with some of the world’s leading choral conductors together with its dedication to performing the finest vocal music old and new, the National Chamber Choir of Ireland remains at the pinnacle of vocal performance in Ireland and beyond.

Monica Huggett will direct a stellar cast of soloist that will include acclaimed Evangelist, John Elwes, a former Kathleen Ferrier award winner, Ruth Peel (Alto); Baroque specialist Susan Hamilton (Soprano), Australian Bass Dean Robinson (Christus & Bass) whose performance with the Orchestra of the Age of the Enlightenment was received with critical acclaim and Canadian Daniel Auchincloss, whose unique high tenor register has earned him a reputation as one of the best baroque tenors.