Amazon.co.uk Review
Fall and Resurrection was conceived by Sir John Tavener, perhaps the leading present-day composer of British spiritual music, to mark the new Millennium. Its premiere, preserved on this recording, took place at St Paul's Cathedral in January 2000, the acoustic of that historical venue contributing much to an intensely emotional experience for the audience, the singers and the musicians. It is an epic, tonal poem in which Tavener sublimates his own artistic achievement in a series of primordial movements and chants which encapsulate moments before, during and after Creation, ultimately offering a vision of divine hope which is tumultuous and profoundly moving.
The performances, particularly from soprano Patricia Rozario and bass Stephen Richardson, are absorbing; Richard Hickox at the helm of the City of London Sinfonia ensures that all due attention is paid to the complexity and detail of Tavener's score, which is based on a Byzantine chant and including a variety of ancient instruments, from the kaval to Tibetan temple bowls. As Tavener explains in the accompanying interviews, he sees music as "liquid metaphysics", and truly sacred music can only be achieved through the total self-effacement of the composer. Thus he sets the listener--and viewer--a daunting task. Rising to it is not merely an auditory challenge. It requires an almost physical surrender. This is music which is absorbed as much as heard.
On the DVD: Fall and Resurrection, presented in 16:9 anamorphic format, is splendidly delivered via a Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound audio track which transports the viewer to the vaulting interior heights of St. Paul's Cathedral. Extras include two interviews with Tavener in which he talks with fascinating intensity about his own faith, the role of the composer and the complex musical and spiritual images encompassed by this work. --Piers Ford
Special Features
The Eye of the Heart -- Sir John Tavener talks about his beliefs and music
Introduction to the work and interview with Sir John Tavener by Stephanie Hughes
Dolby Digital 5.1
16:9 Anamorphic
Region code: All
Subtitles: English
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