Credo is one of Krzysztof Penderecki’s finest oratorio works, alongside such compositions as St Luke Passion and Seven Gates of Jerusalem. Initially conceived as part of a complete Mass cycle, it was eventually expanded by the composer into an independent, monumental work.
The textual basis of the composition is the Latin Creed, enriched with excerpts from the Holy Week liturgy, the Protestant chorale Aus tiefer Not, the Polish Lenten hymn Ludu mój ludu, and the supplicatory invocation Któryś za nas cierpiał rany. This combination of diverse traditions and sources creates a multidimensional, ecumenical spiritual space. Together with its powerful performing forces, Credo becomes a deeply moving work in both its spiritual and artistic dimensions.
