Golijov, who was present for the performance, once said that the question, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” was something of a starting point for the piece, a sentiment he felt echoes the feelings of many of the faithful in Latin America as they’ve withstood oppression, violence and poverty. It helps bring this inspired Passion to a solemn conclusion, resolving in a mourner’s Kaddish from the composer’s Jewish tradition. It was a finish that I wanted to absorb for a few seconds longer, but I can’t blame the audience at Orchestra Hall for immediately rising to its feet and showering the performers with a 10-minute standing ovation. It deserved even longer.
Review: A powerful Passion closes Minnesota Orchestra’s Latin Sommerfest
August 3, 2019