On the Feast of St. Benedict, chant from a Benedictine Abbey is definitely called for. This is a restful bit of psalmody from Pluscarden Abbey in Scotland. I love chanted psalms in the monastic traditions - no dragging, no rushing - just an even walking tempo. Pluscarden Abbey has a splendid website - you can even find out why these monks are wearing white rather than the traditional Benedictine black.
So pay them a visit on this feast day (or any day) and consider that the work of Benedict still continues throughout the world and pray that it continue forever.
And why not enjoy some bread today in honor of St. Benedict? You can read the story about the saint and the raven and the bread here. Saints and food are always enjoyable associations.
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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