James MacMillan: Since it was the day of Preparation

MacMillan’s elegant setting of the Resurrection via St. John’s Gospel is a spiritual, dramatic experience. Since it was the day of preparation…‘s unique chamber instrumentation includes such instruments as the theorbo—a lute with an extended neck—and its narrative picks up where Bach’s St. John Passion left off. Bass soloist Brindley Sherratt sings the words of Christ with pathos and gravity, while the musicians of Hebrides Ensemble deliver MacMillan’s sombre melodies and cryptic phrasing with a sense of sincerity. “The Appearances of the Disciples” showcases the composer’s gentile, captivating polyphony with striking transparency.