Ian Crisp wrote:

>Can anyone give me any hints and tips in advance? I don't know much
>Gubaidulina, but most of what I've heard I find challenging and intriguing.

I don't know the Canticle of the Sun, but you might like to try obtaining
a copy of the Philips CD featuring the Netherlands Chamber Choir under
Reinbert de Leeuw, singing two of Gubaidulina's choral works:  "Jetzt immer
Schnee" and "Perception." Her writing for voice is fragmentary - yet she
manages to conjure up wonderful sound tapestries (a word I use frequently
when describing the work of one of this century's most original voices).
Incidentally - and knowing your enthusiasm for Veni, Veni - her use of
percussion is extraordinary.  Her "Misterioso" for seven percussion
instruments is available on BMG Classics.

On the other hand, you could try doing what people have suggested I do with
Mahler: sit back and enjoy it.

Jonathan