Gubaidulina: The Canticle of the Sun, Preludes for Violoncello Solo & In Croce

Sofia Gubaidulina's "The Canticle of the Sun, Preludes for Violoncello Solo & In Croce" is a captivating exploration of minimalist and avant-garde compositions, released in 2009 under the Channel Classics label. This album showcases Gubaidulina's mastery of contemporary classical music, blending spiritual themes with innovative instrumental techniques.

The centerpiece of the album is "The Canticle of the Sun," a 19-movement work inspired by St. Francis of Assisi's famous hymn. Each movement is a meditation on different elements of nature and human experience, from the moon and stars to wind, water, and even death. The piece is performed with profound sensitivity by Pieter Wispelwey on the cello, accompanied by the Collegium Vocale.

Complementing this are the "10 Preludes for Violoncello Solo," brief yet intense studies that explore various playing techniques such as staccato, legato, ricochet, and pizzicato. These preludes demonstrate Gubaidulina's ability to extract a wide range of expressions from a single instrument.

The album concludes with "In Croce," a piece for cello and bajan (Russian accordion) that adds a haunting, resonant depth to the collection. The entire album spans just over an hour, offering a rich and immersive listening experience that highlights Gubaidulina's unique voice in the world of contemporary classical music.