Reviewed by John Irvine

This is a collection of three pieces, two of which are for voices. "Beatus Vir" (Blessed Is The Man) was commissioned by Pope John Paul II while he was still plain old Cardinal of Krakow, and was performed on the occasion of the Pope's first visit to Poland after his election. This event coincided with the 900th anniversary of the martyrdom of Saint Stanislaw, who had been killed by the Polish king while celebrating Mass. Given the strong links between Catholicism and Solidarity in resisting communist rule, the modern parallels were not too difficult to draw. "Beatus Vir" has all the hallmarks present in the popular Third Symphony: droning strings and a solo singer climbing upwards from the depths to the heights over a long period of time. The atmosphere moves from anguished supplication to eternal peace at the end. If you loved the Third Symphony, you'll love this. "Totus Tuus" was written for the occasion of the Pope's third visit to his homeland. It is a simple unaccompanied choral piece based on Polish Catholic chant, and it is an affirmation of faith - albeit in the Virgin: "I dedicate myself to you, O Mary, Mother Of Our Redeemer" runs the translation. I can feel the evangelical hackles rising even as I write! Nevertheless, it is a beautiful piece and quite moving. The last piece on the collection, "Old Polish Music" is a bit of a booby prize, however. It is based on 14th century Polish church music and opens with a brass fanfare which conjured up visions of Polish Knights of old lining up for battle. This is contrasted with almost a nimbus of sound created by strings alone. The problem is, the piece just doesn't go anywhere after that. 'Old Music' which should have been left buried and forgotten. Nevertheless "Totus Tuus" and "Beatus Vir" between them will provide 40-odd minutes of religious contemplation. Well worth investigating.

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