Ethannnn the second question is easy: in Bach's passions, Matthaus=Matthew. As to best... that's a tough one. I would go for Klemperer/Philramonia Orch & Chorus & a nice cast of voices (EMI - 1961 recording/both vinyl & cd).
There's a much touted version on Teldec with N Harnoncourt that I must mention (childrens' choir, etc).
You might also be tempted by Bach's Mass in B Minor. IMO, this is a piece where, as far as I know, none of the recorded offerings are totally adequate. You may want to pick up the J-E Gardiner version on Archiv, & take it from there. This has been lauded as "the greatest piece of music". Whatever... I hope you like it!
There's a much touted version on Teldec with N Harnoncourt that I must mention (childrens' choir, etc).
You might also be tempted by Bach's Mass in B Minor. IMO, this is a piece where, as far as I know, none of the recorded offerings are totally adequate. You may want to pick up the J-E Gardiner version on Archiv, & take it from there. This has been lauded as "the greatest piece of music". Whatever... I hope you like it!