John Tavener: Eternity's Sunrise

Sir John Tavener's album is worthy of being mentioned completely on its own, but the reason why I'm posting about it today is because I was quite delighted to discover not only that his piece "Eternity's Sunrise" was used extensively (and quite effectively, I might add) in the movie Children of Men but Tavener actually composed the entire film score (you bet your ass, I am buying that puppy asap).

Tavener is a 20th century English composer whose works are often influences by Orthodox theology. The concept of the album is quite interesting. It was recorded with the Academy of Ancient Music and utilizes old instruments with the modern works. Themes of death, loss, love, hope and eternity run throughout the album. The song, "Eternity's Sunrise" was composed shortly after his father's death and the passing of Princess Diana (to which the song was dedicated to). The words are taken from a William Blake poem of the same name. I should note the song is incredibly difficult to sing, requiring barely any use of vibrato and pure toned, sustained notes. Patricia Rosario does this to perfection as she sings:

To see a World in a Grain of Sand
Alleluia
He who kisses the joy as it flies

And a Heaven in a Wild Flower
Alleluia
Lives in Eternity's Sunrise

Hold infinity in the palm of your hand
Alleluia
He who kisses the joy as it flies


I found the incorporation of this song with the Children of Mem film score fascinating. In the movie, humanity is on the brink of extinction due to global infertility that has lasted 20 years, war and economic mishap. Without giving away too much, the movie centers around a main character Kee, who is miraculously pregnant. In the liner notes, Tavener mentions that the solo soprano represents Mother Earth, a symbol of fertility. This song is essentially Kee's theme.

Listen to:
"Eternity's Sunrise"(edit)

Visit:
Sir John Tavener's Official Website
John Tavener's Wiki Entry
Children of Men Official Website
Buy Eternity's Sunrise from Amazon.com