Pärt, Arvo - The Collection (9CD) - Various

Arvo Pärt (born 1935) is undoubtedly one of the best known and most beloved contemporary composers. His highly personal style, influenced by Gregorian chant, is based on slowly changing patterns, tintinnabuli (small bells), which create a meditative and hallucinatory effect, a world of visionary spiritual contemplation. Pärt's sacred choral works are extremely popular with both traditional classical audiences and the open-minded younger generation. This extensive collection brings together Pärt's best-known and most beloved works, both instrumental and vocal: Spiegel im Spiegel, Für Alina, Tabula Rasa, Fratres, Magnificat, Berliner Messe, Johannes-passio, as well as organ works and all piano works. Excellent performances by Le Nuove Musiche/Krijn Koetsveld, Leeds Cathedral Choir, Ulster Orchestra, Jeroen van Veen, and many others. The booklet includes extensive liner notes on the composer and his works.