Celtic Mass for the Sea" will be sung in honor of "World Oceans Day" on Saturday, June 2
“Now lay thine ear against this golden sand, And thou shalt hear the music of the sea”
A reunion of about two dozen singers who performed “The Celtic Mass for the Sea” with the Orcas Choral Society will again sing excerpts from the contemporary work this Saturday, June 2, at 11 a.m. at the Emmanuel Episcopal Parish Hall.
The Forward to the written score for “Celtic Mass” states:
“Celtic Mass for the Sea” rekindles an ancient lore of the ocean. The text is based on writings of Celitic origin, many of of which predate the 12th century, consequently blends pre-Christian influence (pagan, Wiccan and Druid) with Christian and secular sources. Included in the work are musical themes invoking rowing songs, funeral chants, sea-rapture songs and labour songs. Interwoven with this material, Halifax composer, conductor and guitarist Scott Macmillan has created many of his own original themes.
The Orcas Choral Society performed the Mass in its entirety at its American World Premier on Orcas Island in 1996, and again in 2002, under the direction of Catherine Pederson. Canadian composer Scott Macmillan and librettist Jennyfer Brickenden are coordinating flash mob performances of the Mass “introit” to be broadcast on YouTube in honor of World Oceans Day on June 8.
World Oceans Day was first proposed 20 years ago by the Government of Canada at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The UN now officially recognizes a resolution passed in 2008 by the United Nations General Assembly declaring “World Oceans Day” on June 8 each year.
The Orcas Island celebration includes Catherine Pederson as Choral Director, Louellen McCoy as piano accompanist, and Rachel Bishop as fiddler. Those who wish to join as listeners for this brief 15 minutes or so of music written in homage to the sea and its creatures are most welcome to come to the event at Emmanuel Episcopal Parish Hall at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 2.
A simple coffee reception will follow.
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
