The range of Penderecki’s music is exemplified by this disc, which presents five works written over a period of nearly 40 years.

Hymne an den heiligen Adalbert was composed in 1997 and evokes the martyred eighth-century Bishop of Prague through spare but fervent gestures. More austere, but intense in its focus, is Song of the Cherubim, whilst Canticum Canticorum Salomis is a richly sensuous exploration of the Song of Songs. Kosmogonia explores a complex sound tapestry. Strophen (1959) was a breakthrough work – spare, intricate and marvellously tensile.

These are among Penderecki’s most interesting and important works for orchestral and vocal forces, written over a near four decade period of growth and renewal.

Antoni Wit and his forces have been highly commended in this repertoire and are among Penderecki’s most ardent and experienced interpreters.

In 2002 Antoni Wit became managing and artistic director of the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir. He has received six Grammy nominations.