James MacMillan: Symphony No. 5 "Le grand Inconnu" & The Sun Danced

Featuring

Mary Bevan
Harry Christophers
Julie Cooper
Kim Porter
Mark Dobell
Ben Davies

Genesis Sixteen
The Sixteen
Britten Sinfonia
James MacMillan

Did you know?

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Composer's Artistic Vision

James MacMillan, a Catholic artist, aims to explore the mystery of the Holy Spirit in his Fifth Symphony, 'Le grand Inconnu', beyond traditional hymnody and liturgical praise.

Composition History

The work 'The Sun Danced' was commissioned by the Shrine of Fatima in Portugal to celebrate the Centennial of the Apparitions, charting the apparitions and the Miracle of the Sun.

Recording & Production

This album features a live recording of James MacMillan's Symphony No. 5, 'Le grand Inconnu', from its London premiere at the Barbican.

Performer Biography

The Sixteen, founded by Harry Christophers, has set benchmark standards for choral music performance, ranging from medieval polyphony to contemporary works, and has over 150 recordings.

Compositional Technique

James MacMillan's Fifth Symphony, 'Le grand Inconnu', explores the theme of the Holy Spirit through three movements concentrating on breath, water, and fire, using elemental and primal sounds.

Performer Biography

Genesis Sixteen is The Sixteen's free training scheme, launched in 2011, which nurtures young ensemble singers and helps them transition into professional careers.

Composition History

Both James MacMillan's Stabat mater and his Fifth Symphony, 'Le grand Inconnu', were commissioned by John Studzinski, a philanthropist with a special interest in sacred music.