Religion is at the heart of many an artists’ inspiration. Composers throughout the ages, such as Bach, Handel and many others, held deeply spiritual connections to their God and used that in the creation of their music. The Sixteen, with their steadfast director Harry Christophers, explores that connection through this deep dive into the history of the Agnus Dei.

Agnus Dei, or ‘Lamb of God’, refers to Jesus in John 1:29, when St John the Baptist says: ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world’. For centuries and in many Christian traditions, this has inspired composers to write some of the most sublime music. Pulled together in one album, with the soaring voices of this exceptional choir, you can immediately see why people have continuously performed these musical offerings. There are composers of all ilk on this album, from Monteverdi, Poulenc, Scarlatti, Lobo, Britten, Tye and of course, Barber’s tear- inducing setting. If you feel the need for something to ease a sore disposition, this album may go a little way to helping. A stunning album worthy of its place in The Sixteen’s award-winning catalogue.

Kate Rockstrom](https://www.readings.com.au/profile/kate-rockstrom) is a friend of Readings.