The countries of the Baltic region have been influencing each other for centuries. Estonia was occupied by both Sweden and Russia and the coast was also a popular vacation spot. Artists and composers like Tchaikovsky often spent summers there. Whether through art, religion or music, this area has a rich cultural history. On the second CD in the series, Baltic Voices, Paul Hillier chose to focus on sacred music from the three branches of Christianity found in the area: Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant. Per Norgard's 'Winter Hymn,' representing Protestantism is a choral arrangement by Gunnar Erikkson. The version heard here is an English translation for greater accessibility. The final two pieces come from the Russian Orthodox tradition. Alfred Schnittke, the most known of the group, composed the 'Three Sacred Hymns' in 1983, but created an a cappella version at the request of conductor Valery Polyansky. 'On Leaving,' by Galina Grigorjeva and 'And then in silence there with me be only you,' by Tovio Tulev are world premiere recordings. These extremely difficult and amazing pieces are performed flawlessly by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir. Every second on this CD is riveting and should not be missed.