John Tavener is one of contemporary music's most distinctive and recognisable voices, writing deeply felt compositions of instant magnetism and lyrical intensity inspired by a strong Greek Orthodox faith. At the very heart of his work is sacred choral music, a genre in which Tavener has established considerable fame with contemporary classics such as The Lamb and Hymns to the Mother of God as well as the elegiac Song for Athene. Svyati, for cello and chorus, takes the form of a musical incantation against the hushed voices of the choir. This rarely heard masterpiece sees Tavener deploy an unusual combination of musical forces to powerful and moving effect.