Sir John Tavener has won the 2013 Prize for European Church Music.
The British composer, 68, was awarded the prize for the “deep spirituality” of his music, rather than for attachment to any particular creed or denomination.
Past winners of the award have included  Arvo Pärt, Krzysztof Penderecki and Petr Eben.
John Tavener career highlights
1968: The Whale premiered by the London Sinfonetta and subsequently recorded on The Beatles’ Apple label
1973: Wrote Thérèse to a commission from Royal Opera House, Covent Garden
1989: Premiere of The Protecting Veil at the Proms in London
2000: Receives a knighthood in Millennium Honours List
2003: Premiere of the all-night vigil The Veilof the Temple
2005: Receives Ivor Novello Classical Music Award
Key works
The Whale (1966; orchestra, choir, soloists)
The Protecting Veil (1988; cello, strings)
Song for Athene (1993; choir)
The Veil of the Temple (2002; ensemble, choir, soloists)
Schuon Lieder (2003; soprano, ensemble)
Discover John Tavener’s choral works at Musicroom.com!
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