Several years ago, during the Easter season, the daughter of a friend received communion for the first time. Profoundly handicapped, she cannot see, walk or speak, but she adores music, and I love watching her face when I cantor the psalm. But when the alleluia burst forth, it so startled her that she lost her usual grin. I felt awful, though her father assured me afterwards that it was just that she couldn't see it coming. Literally!
Eric Whitacre's still and gentle Alleluia wouldn't startle anyone I suspect. I find in the frenzy of the end of the semester, following upon the intensity of the early part of this liturgical season, I don't always want my allelluias with trumpet blasts. The depth and stillness of this version sings to me of the enduring grace of the resurrection in ways that the trumpets do not, and ever so gently draws me into God's embrace.
If you need a late afternoon or evening meditation, lie back, close your eyes and spend 10 minutes with this piece.
Did anyone sing anything that could't have use a trumpet or two today? Share in the comments!
this is too wonderful not to share for comfort, peace and hope. Thanks.
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It soothed my soul, I must say! Glad that you found it of comfort as well....
DeleteThank you for sharing this - it was exactly what my soul needed is evening.
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