Maria Kliegel, Eileen Hulse, Ulster Orchestra, Takuo Yuasa - Tavener: The Protecting Veil, In Alium (1998)

While John Tavener is understandably linked with other "mystical" composers such as Pärt and Gorecki, Tavener is perhaps the most revered of them because of his work 'The Protecting Veil.' It has received numerous recordings but this one may be the most sumptuous of all.
Structured in several sections that undulate with waves of varying intensity, this work features a primarily high-register cello line that represents, according to Tavener, the Mother of God. Essentially an aria for cello and orchestra, the music is at times subtle and unobtrusive, but elsewhere gives way to emotional outbursts. 'In Alium' is a riveting but more demanding work for both listeners and players alike. Behind the slow and grave soprano solo-the text is a poem by Charles Peguy concerning childhood innocence-a fascinating variety of sounds are heard: subtly interwoven bells, organ and, most intriguing of all, children1s voices singing prayers in several languages. A work of tremendous emotional power, this is a brilliant performance that is destined to become a classic.