Stabat Mater: Choral Works by Arvo Part

"Modest about his achievements yet authentically convinced about the role of his music in today’s world, Arvo Pärt (b. 1935) is today’s most performed classical composer. For the past forty years, Pärt’s compositions have shown and spoken the influence of Gregorian chant, Renaissance polyphony, a compositional technique he developed called tintinnabuli, and silence. This recording offers a unique cross-section of Pärt’s choral works, revealing the heart, soul, and mind of a true master of his language in both text and music. Gloriæ Dei Cantores, under the direction of Richard K. Pugsley, is dedicated to promoting the best of choral music. Several years ago, they began an in-depth study of Arvo Pärt, immersing themselves in his compositional style. They sang his music on tour and in an extensive concert series in Orleans, MA. In this recording, the expressive beauty and clarity of Arvo Pärt's music shines through the joyful dance-like rhythms of Peace Upon You and the glorious setting of Mary’s words in the Magnificat. The masterful L’abbé Agathon sets the scene of this ancient 4th century story of the chance (or was it?) meeting of the hermit Agathon and a leper. The final work - a musical landmark in Pärt's career - is Stabat Mater, written to express the passion, agony, and love of Mary at the foot of the cross of her son."