Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767) was one of the most successful composers of the 18th century in Germany, versatile and skilled, just as fond of the “Italian taste” as of the French manner or German counterpoint. By the abundance of compositions (he is said to have written more than Bach and Handel together) different qualities depending upon the planned usage may also be observed. Although much may certainly have been only routine work, Telemann is capable of surprising originality and beauty, especially in the small forms. He wrote a total of 46 passions, of which the present St Matthew Passion is the most beautiful in regard to the treatment of the choral movements and arias. It was written in 1730 and displays an especially illustrative compositional style. Although the formal design of the choral movements in two voices with octave doublings at first gives the impression of simplicity … it contributes along with the orchestral movement to the creation of an exceedingly skilful composition using modest means. In the course of the composition it may also be determined that Telemann transforms theologically the events of the passion into a joyful representation of the dramatic events as rejoicing about the resurrection-Aria: Frohlocket, hochbetrübte Seelen! (Rejoice, ye grief-stricken souls!) and the choral movement Es stimmen der göttlichen Lehre zu Ehren (Sing to the glory of the divine teaching). This distinguishes him significantly from his contemporaries.