Composer’s note
This piece is an adaptation of the instrumental movement ‘Reflection’ in my large-scale work The Stranger. I was inspired by research showing the emotional effect of having eye contact with a stranger for only a few minutes. Studies have shown that this can develop deeper trust and empathy for each other. The idea was to have the audience facing each other to make eye contact during the performance. With that being essential for peace among people, I used the ‘Dona nobis pacem’ text for this version for choir. There is quite a flexibility in terms of tempo for this piece. If the piano part is being used, a slightly slower tempo is suggested than if performed a cappella.

Kim André Arnesen
Arnesen is one of the most frequently performed composers from Norway today. He grew up in Trondheim where he was a chorister in Nidaros Cathedral, later being educated at the Music Conservatory in Trondheim. With an interest in baroque music, contemporary classical music, and popular music, Kim could have taken many roads, but choral music became his greatest passion. His works have been performed in more than 30 countries around the world. His albums Magnificat (2014) and Infinity (2018) received excellent reviews and reached the top of the iTunes classical charts. He continues to enjoy a busy international schedule of commissions as well as guest appearances at festivals and other choral events. Arnesen has been a house composer at Boosey & Hawkes since 2017.