Garrett Fisher: The Passion of Saint Thomas More. A music drama written for two sopranos, one baritone, one dancer and an instrumental ensemble. Libretto by the composer. Singers: Anna Vinten-Johansen and Christina Högman, sopranos, and Olle Persson, baritone. Instrumentalists: Taina Karr, cor anglais, Sven Åberg, guitar, Garrett Fisher; Indian harmonium and Göran Månsson, percussion. All six movements in one file.
The plot is based on the last days in the life of Saint Thomas More (1478-1535), Renaissance writer and Catholic martyr. The drama focuses on the issue of integrity, which centers on More's refusal to sign a statement approving the divorce of King Henry VIII from Catherine of Aragon. Rather than follow a literal interpretation of a historical situation, 'The Passion of Saint Thomas More' is more a meditation on the integrity of More's sublimely difficult decision to 'hold his pen'.
Gramophone: outstanding; Classics Today 10/10, highest rating.
