A Sermon, a Narrative, and a Prayer

New Testament, Thomas Dekker (E)

A short cantata dedicated (like the Concerto in D) to conductor Paul Sacher and premiered by him with the Basle Chamber Orchestra. The text is taken from the English New Testament and a prayer by Thomas Dekker. It is a rarely performed work, but in its austere, serial beauty it would make a striking contribution to a programme of sacred choral music. Its contemplative closing Alleluias recall the setting of the same word in the final movement of the Symphony of Psalms.

Repertoire note by Jonathan Cross