The Very Best of Karl Jenkins is a 2-CD compilation that presents a selection of the most popular pieces by the nations best-loved living composer Karl Jenkins. The set includes music from best-selling recordings Adiemus, The Armed Man, Requiem, Gloria, Stabat Mater, Palladio, Stella Natalis and Quirk. Karl Jenkins, who was awarded a CBE in 2010, is widely recognized as the worlds most popular living composer following a recent poll by renowned cultural commentator Norman Lebrecht. The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace is his most performed work, having been performed over 1000 times since its world premiere at Londons Royal Albert Hall in April 2000. Commissioned jointly by The Royal Armouries and Classic FM, it was initially inspired by the Kosovan conflict, but the clear message of hope this work brings to so many resounds even stronger ten years later. Born in Wales, Karl Jenkins studied the oboe and graduated from Cardiff University, followed by post-graduate studies at Londons Royal College of Music. Having been a member of the bands Nucleus and Soft Machine, his passion for Jazz led him to composition. Classically trained, but drawing on a diverse range of global influences, his composing style has transcended musical boundaries. Recent recordings include Gloria, Stella Natalis and Joy to the World.