Passion oratorio

A Passion oratorio is a musical composition that depicts the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, often performed during Lent, especially around Holy Week. These works combine orchestral and vocal elements, featuring soloists, a choir, and sometimes narrators. They typically draw from biblical texts, conveying the emotional and spiritual weight of Christ's Passion—the events leading up to his crucifixion. Unlike operas, Passion oratorios focus on religious themes, aiming to inspire reflection and devotion rather than entertain. Renowned examples include J.S. Bach's "St. Matthew Passion" and "St. John Passion," which are celebrated for their profound artistic and spiritual expression.