MenoSunday; Life Lived Easy

Whilst it can certainly be said that my taste in music is eclectic, it has to be said that my listening is predominantly within the early music range. Certainly, in days of playing and singing, this was my preference. To be perfectly honest, as the years have progressed and life has become more about silence and contemplation, even listening to old favourites has become less and less. I do find, when working on some piece of art, say, that music can add to inspiration. At times, too, the right music at the right time can lift one to inner heights.

The music of Hildegarde von Bingen, Perotin, Monteverdi and all such early masters of sound - (I could list so many!) - manipulates the essence of being. Of course, it is music of spirit and faith which does this. Secular musics of all eras touch us at a different level. Still useful, perhaps consoling or serving as a memory byte. The 'popular' songs which stay with us, though, do so because they are firmly based in principles of the classical style.

A composer to whom I return again and again...and again... is J S Bach. A man of strong faith, his Love of God shines in every note. His understanding of the integration of all nature is heard through every rhythm. His music, to me, IS Love.

One can listen grossly (with the ear alone) and marvel at the technique. One can listen subtly (with the intellect) and appreciate the motive and sigh of the centuries which do not tarnish the Love. One can listen causally (yes, correct spelling; in one's causative Self) and know the transcendence which can otherwise come from meditation; suspended in the sound, there is nothing else to interfere with the bliss.

The partitas ('suites'; a single work in several parts) are not every one's choice. The focus of the player and the instrument, though, is as an active meditation. I do hope you will enjoy this particular partita, a mandala of sound.

What's that? Not heard any Perotin before?  Well, it's first Sunday of the month, so how about a little bonus clip?

For the interested, this a single line of text, given a full 'organ' treatment of voice-work. If you listen carefully, you will find the following:

'Alleluia. Nativitas gloriose virginis Mariae ex semine Abrahae orta de tribu Iuda clara ex stirpe David. Alleluia.' 

(Alleluia. O glorious nativity of the Virgin Mary, born of the seed of Abraham of the tribe of shining Judea, out of the stock of David. Alleluia.)

A blessed Sunday to you, dear readers (and listeners!). YAM xx