Also this issue: Home Records A roundup of CDs by people who go to the same dentist as you. -Paul Burress, M.J. Fine, P.R, Patrick Rapa and John Vettese More CD reviews -Debra Auspitz, Peter Burwasser, Andrew Milner and Patrick Rapa Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra -Peter Burwasser Daniel Lanois -Sam Adams Def Jam Vendetta Tour The Creatures of the Golden Dawn -Brian Howard Prism Quartet -Peter Burwasser A.F.I. -John Vettese

May 14-20, 2003

musicpicks

Choral Arts Society

J.S. Bach's massive setting of the Passion according to St. Matthew relates one of the central narratives of the Christian faith, Jesus' last days on earth. It is possible to be moved by the purely religious elements of this work, but the universal appeal of Bach really derives from the overwhelming sense of humanity that Bach paints. There are few works in all of Western art that plumb the depths of human emotional expression with the beauty and profundity of the St. Matthew Passion. The Choral Arts Society of Philadelphia will present the work in all its glory, augmented by two choirs, a huge orchestra and six vocal soloists, including Grammy award-winning baritone William Stone singing the role of Christ. Any worthy performance of Bach, says CASP music director David Tang, will literally force us to think, feel, believe and act more intensely than we ever thought possible. We hope this concert leaves a lasting impression on our audience, giving them the profound experience of music's power to engage the utmost of our capacities.

Sun., May 18, 7:30 p.m., $25-$65, Kimmel Center, 260 S. Broad St., 215-893-1999.

—Peter Burwasser