This piece composed by Estonian modern classical composer Arvo Pärt is performed here in 1999 in the Church Of St Nicholas, Tallin, Estonia by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir and the Tallin Chamber Orchestra and conducted by Tõnju  Kaljuste. The piece composed for choir, strings, prepared piano and wind harp was commissioned in Germany in 1984 and released on Manfred Eicher’s ECM label in 1993 and is one of  Arvo Pärt’s most well known and respected works.

The title is taken from the Latin, Te Deum Laudamus “Thee, O God, we praise”. Awe inspiring, invoking both the fear and love of God, this piece is hauntingly beautiful. Although I was never brought up with any religion, I was still always able to appreciate the beautiful voices in Gregorian Chants and Early Music. Pärt often cited for writing brilliant music inspired by misery has transformed any misery here into bliss.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPd3e5woOyc

http://www.musicolog.com/part_lenten.asp#.UoQOSKXWf8s

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arvo_Pärt

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Te_Deum_(Pärt)