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In this account of Jesus Christ's suffering and death, Arvo Pärt has found appropriate material for his very popular minimalist style. The Vulgate Latin text, taken from the Gospel of John, relates the harrowing story of Jesus' arrest, trial before Pilate and Caiaphas, betrayal by Peter, and death on the cross with a matter-of-fact, straightforward simplicity that is perfectly matched by the calm detachment and slow-moving simplicity of Pärt's music. This simplicity, reminiscent of medieval plainchant, is achieved through rather complex resources: two soloists--Michael George for the words of Christ, John Potter for those of Pilate; the remaining members of the Hilliard Ensemble singing the Gospel narrative in harmony; a small chorus for the words of the crowd and other characters; and a chamber ensemble (oboe, bassoon, violin, cello, and organ) to accompany the voices. The performance and cathedral ambiance are just right. --Joe McLellan
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