The Christian mysticism which pervades much of Gubaidulina’s work is strikingly abundant in this passionate and harrowing musical depiction of Christ’s Crucifixion. Specific moments can be heard, such as the hammering of the nails into the wood, (3:20), the raising of the cross (4:05) and the subsequent pain, the feeling of utter sadness and grief (8:05) and finally Jesus’s ascension to heaven (13:20). A great many effects are deployed on both instruments to add to the musical imagery (such as the creaking of the wood and the whistle of the wind) and there is much more to be discovered. As performers we always find this piece extremely painful to play, both physically and emotionally. When we perform it live we always take time to talk to the audience about it first and it is often the highlight of the programme, even for those who wouldn’t usually listen to music of this nature. Please be assured that you will not be alone if you find this music difficult to listen to, but we hope that this short discussion of the piece may encourage you to persevere if you have a spare fifteen minutes.
This is a fantastic piece and a fantastic performance of it! Thank you for introducing me to it! I am going to play it myself after hearing this very inspiring recording!
A very intense piece. Thank you for sharing an explanation of the piece, it helped to understand the context. Amazing how music and instrumentation can convey so much imagery and emotion. Thank you for posting. 🎹🎶
I've grown up listening to classical music from my earliest memories. My father was a professional musician of classical music. This is bizarre and not like anything this couple has ever played before. I held out for 1:51 and had enough. I hear no resemblance to any classical composition, exercise or expression. This is not an expression of peace found in traditional Christian music. I have followed this channel for music that has wonderful classical and Christian expressions Disappointed
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and we’re sorry you didn’t enjoy this latest track. We programme as diverse a range of music as possible in our concerts and try to reflect this on our channel. We have now added some background information on the piece in the video description which may help if you decide to have another listen but we completely understand if not. We are always grateful for your support and glad you have enjoyed our previous uploads.
The Christian mysticism which pervades much of Gubaidulina’s work is strikingly abundant in this passionate and harrowing musical depiction of Christ’s Crucifixion.
Specific moments can be heard, such as the hammering of the nails into the wood, (3:20), the raising of the cross (4:05) and the subsequent pain, the feeling of utter sadness and grief (8:05) and finally Jesus’s ascension to heaven (13:20).
A great many effects are deployed on both instruments to add to the musical imagery (such as the creaking of the wood and the whistle of the wind) and there is much more to be discovered.
As performers we always find this piece extremely painful to play, both physically and emotionally. When we perform it live we always take time to talk to the audience about it first and it is often the highlight of the programme, even for those who wouldn’t usually listen to music of this nature.
Please be assured that you will not be alone if you find this music difficult to listen to, but we hope that this short discussion of the piece may encourage you to persevere if you have a spare fifteen minutes.
Wow, excellent performance of an emotionally charged work. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks! It’s an extraordinary piece!
This is a fantastic piece and a fantastic performance of it! Thank you for introducing me to it! I am going to play it myself after hearing this very inspiring recording!
Many thanks!
A very intense piece. Thank you for sharing an explanation of the piece, it helped to understand the context. Amazing how music and instrumentation can convey so much imagery and emotion. Thank you for posting. 🎹🎶
Thanks - it is an extraordinary piece!
I've grown up listening to classical music from my earliest memories. My father was a professional musician of classical music. This is bizarre and not like anything this couple has ever played before. I held out for 1:51 and had enough. I hear no resemblance to any classical composition, exercise or expression. This is not an expression of peace found in traditional Christian music.
I have followed this channel for music that has wonderful classical and Christian expressions
Disappointed
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and we’re sorry you didn’t enjoy this latest track. We programme as diverse a range of music as possible in our concerts and try to reflect this on our channel. We have now added some background information on the piece in the video description which may help if you decide to have another listen but we completely understand if not. We are always grateful for your support and glad you have enjoyed our previous uploads.
Intriguing musical work. Well done and very convincing!