The details of Johann Valentin Meder’s life are somewhat sketchy. Born in Wasungen to a musical family, Meder worked as a professional singer in his early days. According to a work list compiled by the composer’s son, Meder was a prolific composer with 12 Masses, five Magnificats, four Passions, numerous concertato motets, two operas, as well as secular vocal and instrumental works to his credit.

The Passionsoratorium Nach Matthäus on this fine recording dates from 1701 when Meder was choirmaster and organist in Riga. Meder’s setting impresses with its subtlety. Scored for SSATB chorus and small instrumental ensemble, the work features brief, lyrical solo arias for the first soprano and tenor and turba choruses that are rhythmically charged. As the tradition would have it, a number of the melodies are based on familiar Passiontide chorales. One of the interesting aspects of Meder’s setting is his treatment of the Evangelist’s narration.

The recitatives demand some vocal dexterity and are blessed with an Italianate lyricism. Gerd Türk brings much to his performance of the Evangelist, as do the other soloists, who also serve as the chorus. Soprano Nicki Kennedy sings beautifully in her solo arias and bass Christian Hilz is a sonorous, moving Jesus who sings the ariosos with deep-felt expressivity. The instrumental ensemble is polished and provides sensitive support, especially in the delicate accompaniment to Jesus’ ariosos. The liner notes are well written, but the libretto is not translated. CRAIG ZEICHNER