In commissioning this work, Hans -Georg Vleugels invited me to pay tribute to history 's legendary churches, such as the Hagia Sofia of Istanbul and the Schlosskirche of Chemnitz. The Schlosskirche, a former Benedictine abbey, wasthe catalyst for the foundation ofthe city of Chemnitz. The composition, Hagia Sofia (Holy Wisdom) , is based on the medieval antiphon 'Crucem sanctam subiit ', which was suggested by my son Jean -Paul due to its likely links withthe Templar Knights, who had a very active role in defending Christianity in the Middle East. It is articulated in four harmonic and ornamental variations (Maestoso, Andante, Maestoso, Allegro) and is framed by a solemn organumsetting of the medieval theme. (Naji Hakim)