When I
first heard the Kyiv (Kiev) Symphony Orchestra and Chorus on tour in
2004, I was deeply touched by Conductor Roger McMurrin's story and
subsequently influenced by reading the book The Splendor of His
Music, written by Roger’s wife Diane. Shortly after that concert I
knew in my heart that I should record a CD with the musicians of
Kiev that would glorify God.
We have
all been given an innate desire to be elevated above and beyond our
daily existence; the arts can provide that for us. Seeing a work of
art can uplift us; a ballet or play can transport us to a different
plane. For me personally, this is why I love singing opera. However,
my first love has always been sacred music –lifting to the highest
plane.
Since my
early training as a classical musician, I have observed a huge shift
in music in both pop culture as well as in houses of worship, where
the trend is now for ‘simpler’, easier, basically more accessible
music. Sometimes a contemporary praise chorus perfectly fits my
mood, but at other times, I find my spirit yearning to hear (or
sing) the inspired works of the Masters, which better represent the
intricate nature and the awesomeness of our Lord.
Diane
McMurrin speaks of this same sacred music in her book. “The
attributes of God are described in the language of music: power,
peace, compassion, justice, majesty, and blessing. Music is a
vehicle to see God…the people come for edification… they come
expecting an experience to make them more noble, more educated, more
cultured. …God’s power is in this music. He becomes real to them
through the divine spark of creativity that ordained it… In
the performance of this music, they receive the gift of feeling God’s
splendor…” (quoted with permission from The Splendor of His Music,
pages 213 & 214) .
I have
been so moved and at the same time humbled by the incredible amount
of support I have received from family, friends, and my church, the
Manoa Presbyterian Church. I am so grateful to the Lord for giving
me this opportunity and for blessing me with continual grace as I
prepared for this recording. It would be impossible to list by name
everyone who helped bring forth this “Classical Praise” CD.
Friendship and encouragement, advice and/or financial support came
from many, and I want you to know that I deeply appreciate all of
you!
My
greatest hope for this CD is that you – the listeners - will be
richly blessed as you hear how these words and this music truly
reflect the honor and praise due our Lord and Creator!
To God be
the glory!
