Madam, - I refer to Eileen Battersby's article on Bach's St John and St Matthew Passions (March 29th). It is always a pleasure to read someone like Ms Battersby, who loves the music of Bach and conveys that love with such enthusiasm and commitment. Long may it continue.
I do, however, differ with her in one important aspect. For me, the St Matthew is the intimate personal work - notwithstanding its two choirs, two orchestras and up to eight soloists - while the St John, written for much smaller forces, conveys its drama on the large, universal stage.
The miracle is of course, that Bach created two such utterly contrasting works - more evidence of his supreme mastery as a composer. - Yours, etc,
LINDSAY ARMSTRONG, Bass Place, Dublin 2.