However, we learned that MacMillan's teenage years influences, playing in silver bands – "I always keep brass players busy" – and singing Palestrina and Victoria, stayed with him.

Ornamentation in his vocal writing, he revealed, stems largely from his interest in and absorption of Scottish and Irish folk music, particularly the vocal variety.

On writing a piece of music, he said: "Some works (in their entirety) you see at a glance, others have to be built, bar by bar."

As was evident in three Strathclyde Motets performed, chant is a crucial part of his compositional makeup, at least that he uses in his religious works.

It was even apparent in the organ piece, Gaudeamus in loci pace, played with rock-steady poise by Anthony Gowing. It also recalled Messiaen and MacMillan admitted he tries to steer clear of writing solo organ music, so influential remains the French composer on the writing of organ music.

The three motets were exceptionally well sustained and sung by Sheffield Cathedral Choir under its director Neil Taylor, especially the central one Sedebit Dominus Rex.

The vocal lines are by no means easy and, at times, downright
challenging, given they were written for amateur singers. Fortunately, the cathedral's 11 professional Songmen were there to confront the difficulties and support a handful of excellent girl choristers and a dozen boy choristers.

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