The music is an invocation to the Great Mother Mahámátar in Sanskrit, and to the Theotóke (God-bearer) in Greek. Originally written to accompany a film by Werner Herzog which deals with South American Indians who travel for many miles on their knees to venerate the miraculous Ikon of The Mother of God of Guadalupe. Mahámátar may be performed by a solo voice or alternatively the melody could be played by a solo cello, with decorations and improvisations by the singer. Dedicated to Werner Herzog. Commissioned by the BBC. Duration: approximately 14 min. Composer's note in English. Includes pronunciation guide.
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