Conductor Craig Hella Johnson is the founding artistic director of Conspirare, the professional choral organization performing on this album.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Composer Mark Buller and librettist Leah Lax reimagined ancient liturgical forms, such as the Mass and Requiem, through the lens of contemporary issues and personal reckonings with inherited faith.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded at St. Martin's Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas, between February 25 and March 1, 2025.
Composer Biography
Mark Buller's "Mass in Exile" was born out of his frustration and disillusionment with his fundamentalist background, particularly after political events in 2016.
Album & Artwork
The album title "advena" is Latin for 'stranger' or 'foreigner,' reflecting themes of migration, displacement, and spiritual exile.
Performer Biography
Conspirare, led by Craig Hella Johnson, won a GRAMMY® for Best Choral Performance in 2015 and has received 11 total nominations.
Composition History
The two shorter companion pieces, "Introit: Fruit of Your Heart" and "Communion: A Questioning," were commissioned by Conspirare with new texts by Euan Tait.
