Offertorium (1980): Violin Concerto / Hommage a T. S. Eliot

"Kremer's virtuosity in the Offertorium matched by orchestral playing of great brilliance. ... Hommage à T. S. Eliot, a work of formidable power and gripping vehemence." (Gramophone, Sept. 1989)

A tendency towards symbolism is a feature of many of Gubaidulina's works. Her interest in various traditions of Western culture is reflected in the Offertorium for violin and orchestra which was also composed as a part of the mass.

Sofia Gubaidulina's music strikes us by its expressive intensity which can best be understood when she describes that "there is no more reason for composing music than spiritual renewal". Particularly the contrast between sound and silence is a leading compositional principle.