I have used heterophony (simultaneous variation of a single melodic line) in the choral writing, not just because it is a technique I find rewarding as a composer and as a listener, but also as a way of reflecting the ’shared inheritance’ of the prayer – I mean, the many translations in which it exists and is regularly used, and the many denominations and strands of Christianity (and beyond) for whom it is a central, or model, way of speaking to God. My hope is that this piece, which may possibly have some connection to the actual physical sound of Jesus’ own words, will provide a meditative and a moving experience, whether performed in a liturgical or concert setting, and whether performed by, or for, Christians or for those of any or no religious faith. (Paul Ayres)Paul Ayres is a British composer and arranger mainly of vocal music, and has been awarded many composition prizes.