Turning to the arts
Musaic Vocal Ensemble preparing program of choral music to help with world challenges
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the events in our world? Do you struggle to find a way forward? Do you feel powerless to make change? Do you wish for a straight path forward?
Sometimes, when we have no answers, we turn to the arts to lead us forward or, at least, to offer some respite from what burdens us.
Musaic Vocal Ensemble is hard at work preparing a program of choral music to help guide us through some of the world’s challenges.
The choir is taking a lead from excerpts of Nelson Mandela’s inaugural address in 1994, words which have been set to music by Latvian composer Erik Esenvalds:
“There is no easy road to freedom. None of us acting alone can achieve success. We must therefore act together as a united people, for national reconciliation, for nation building, for the birth of a new world. The time for the healing of the wounds has come. The moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. The time to build is upon us. Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for us all. Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all. Let each know that for each the body, the mind and the soul have been freed to fulfil themselves.”
The texts of Musaic’s program encourage us to find sacred spaces, to dream of new ways forward, to believe in ourselves, to inspire our children, to listen to one another, to be gentle with each other, and most importantly, to love one another. Through this program of choral music, you are sure to be soothed and inspired in your journey.
Much of the program will include a jazz rhythm section, played by the remarkable local trio of pianist Dennis Nordlund, bass player Stefan Bienz and drummer Mike Treadway.
Three performances are scheduled in the South Okanagan: Oliver Alliance Church, April 20, 7:30 p.m.; St. Saviour’s Anglican Church in Penticton, April 21, 7:30 p.m.; and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Summerland, April 28 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for students, and can be purchased in advance by calling 778-531-4161 or emailing musaicpenticton@gmail.com.