Winner of the Millennium Prize 2001, Forty Part Motet is a reworking of "Spem in Alium" by Thomas Tallis, a 16th-century English composer. Forty separately-recorded choir voices are played back through forty speakers positioned around the room. The effect of the work on visitors is deeply moving, earning it a popularity rarely encountered by contemporary art.

"Most people experience this piece now in their living rooms in front of only two speakers," says Janet Cardiff. "Even in a live concert the audience is separated from the individual voices. Only the performers are able to hear the person standing next to them singing a different harmony. I wanted to be able to climb inside the music."

Opening Hours
After its presentation at the National Gallery of Canada, the Forty Part Motet will continue its tour, which includes stops at venues across Canada, until the end of 2005. So, don't miss this chance by coming to the Gallery during opening hours: from Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm and Thursday until 8 pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Open 30 and 31 December and closed 25 December and 1 January.