Great visuals accompanying the chant from this Spanish monastery of Carthusian nuns. The music starts around 1:20, if you're impatient. The strict rule and hermetic life of the Carthusians makes the some of the other contemplative orders look like slackers. In some ways, it is reminiscent of the very limited cenobitic life of many monasteries on Mount Athos.
One of the most interesting points about St. Bruno's order is that has never needed reform. Another is the privilege at the time of the Council of Trent that allowed them to retain their own rite because of the age of their order. (This was also true of Dominicans, Carmelites, and Franciscans, IIRC.)
One of the first countries to become Christian, Armenia is a mystery to most of us. This recording done by John Graham at Geghard Monastery is more than beautiful. It is a connection to a different place and time. Graham is a historical musicologist resident in Georgia (the country, not the state) who coordinates tours in this region. His website at John Graham Tours is rich with photos and commentary - and of course, massive amounts of music, both sacred and folk. I stumbled across his site several years ago. And now I'm saving my shekels, pennies, euros, pesos, etc. for a tour. In the meantime, take a look at these amazing countries and people. There is so much beauty in this world when we take our eyes off the sidewalk in front of us, isn't there?
It's time again for the International Baltic Sea Choir Competition. This performance is by a Turkish women's choir, Sirene. The Hungarian composer, Miklos Koscar died this year (1933-2019).
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