pietà: explanation

The Pietà, a classic image from Christian art, shows the Virgin Mary in an austere form, arms wrapped around the dead body of her adult son Jesus on her lap. Few images are more gripping to the throat than that of a parent mourning a deceased child. No wonder, then, that this theme inspired numerous composers, from the Flemish Polyphonists to Arvo Pärt. In this programme, the Flemish Radio Choir pays tribute to Mary and the unconditional love she symbolises. With works that sing of the divine primordial mother or express the longing for her security.