/ CHRIST OF SAINT JOHN OF THE CROSS

Christ of Saint John of the Cross was first recorded and performed by oboist James Turnbull and Illuminare consort. The plainchant used in the piece has been made into a stand-alone choral work, In thee, O Lord, have I put my trust. 

 

This piece is one of a series based on the paintings (and poetry) of Salvador Dalí (1904-1989), but also takes inspiration and uses text from psalm 31.

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Although it is a depiction of the crucifixion, it is devoid of nails, blood, and a crown of thorns, because, according to Dalí, he was convinced by a dream that these features would mar his depiction of Christ.

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​TEXT

In thee, O Lord, have I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness. Bow down thine ear to me; make haste do deliver me: and be thou my strong rock, and house of defence that thou mayest save me. For thou art my strong rock and my castle; be thou also my guide and lead me for thy name’s sake. Draw me out of the net that they have laid for me: for thou art my strength. Into thy hands I commend my spirit: for thou hast redeemed me, O Lord God of truth.

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PREMIERE

James Turnbull, Illuminare consort conducted by Jeremy Cole, 9 August 2017