A year ago this Saturday, I had a film crew follow me to church and around my home to interview me about Byzantine chanting and its significance in my life. I realize I have been largely silent about this area of my teaching career; this is not from a lack of passion or commitment, but only because I find it difficult to write about something so close to my heart.
Well, this double vie has finally caught up with me. After numerous delays, the segment has finally been edited and will air on Religion & Ethics Newsweekly this weekend. If you want to watch it live, check here to see where the program airs in your area (enter your zip code, and then take your pick of stations.) Here in Baltimore, it will air at 6:30 AM Sunday morning on MPT (when I am cherishing the last moments of sleep before I have to get up for Matins) and at 10:30 AM on WETA (when Divine Liturgy is in full swing.) So, as we have no TV with which to view it anyway, I will not be watching it live.
HOWever, according to the show’s producer, the segments are normally uploaded to the website on Friday afternoon / evening. So, if you want to watch there, look for it tonight.
One small disclaimer: this was filmed over a year ago, and I have no idea what I said then — most likely, it included things I was not informed enough to speak about. I am not a theologian, and I am a very poor musician, so please be merciful in judging the quality of my words!
Thanks to Ghillian, my dear friend who didn’t pitch a fit when I had to miss her bridal shower to film this. And deepest gratitude to Zenaida, my dear friend who taught me so much about this complex and fascinating form of art and faith.
Very poor musician.
LOL
Gentle readers, in my decades as a choral musician, this young woman is one of three or four best choral — as opposed to strictly solo — voices I have had the honor of singing with. Period. This includes six years in a college-level classical ensemble that toured nationally.
So laugh at this statement by her. Mock her. Pummel her with compliments. Make her have to take this statement to confession because of its lack of accuracy.
Poor musician, my foot.
;-)
tmatt
I totally agree with Terry, though from a much lower vantage point. Poor Terry has to regularly sing next to me, and I have no idea what a “d” is, let alone if I am hitting it or not. And Emily is always so gentle and encouraging that it makes it easier to keep trying.
And yes, Emily is truly a joy and inspiration to listen to and worship with.
I’ll be asleep for the early show and in Church for the later airing, but will be setting my DVR record it. I’m looking forward to it very much.
Mitchell
I, too must agree that my experience with Emily is that she had many fine musical gifts.
We’ll snag it on our DVR for anyone who wants to watch it. We always knew you were a star, Em!
Much love and gratitude for all you do.
Oh, or here it is: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/episodes/april-10-2009/orthodox-chanting/2625/
Em- you did fantastic! Much better than my NISOD video when I won my teaching award. And you are out of your mind if you say that you have little musical ability. Are you crazy? Blessed be the one who sings to the angels. And that my friend, is you!
Love, _b
Guys (and girl!), you have all made my week. It is a joy to sing with you.
Joe, especially — thanks for teaching me that if the weather is right and the piano is in tune and the director is smiling encouragingly, I can hit a high C. With confidence, even. :)