Sundays, 7 pm in the Sanctuary
November through April
1 hour with jazz intrumentalists
Sundays, 8:30 pm in the Sanctuary
May through October
30 minutes, choral only
Night Song is a Sunday evening event at First Church in Cambridge that fosters meditation and contemplation, providing a refuge from the stress and frantic pace of daily lives. Through the stillness of the evening, burning candles and incense, bells, sacred art, and most especially music, Night Song brings serene beauty and quiet peace into human lives. No words are spoken; everything is perceived through the senses. Night Song, overseen by Artistic Director Daryl Bichel, is another opportunity offered by First Church to reach for the divine in this world.
The music is a unique fusion of contemplative modal instrumental improvisations by jazz musicians blended with ancient and modern chant, and punctuated by glorious polyphonic choral music from the Renaissance (listen here). To some Night Song is experienced as a spiritual journey, and may be a supplement to their regular spiritual practice. Others use it as a vehicle to quietly let their concerns and hopes rise as incense into the fragrant evening air. Many receive a sense of comfort and strength. And there are those who find that the experience transports and transforms them, allowing an escape for moments of peace and clarity.
Monastic in nature, Night Song is purposefully intended to be an experience that differs dramatically from daily life. While Christian in content, Night Song is open to all and does not include creeds, sermons, or participatory elements. Simply sit still and let beauty enfold you. Or use the experience to express your hopes and concerns for others in your life and in our sometimes troubled world. Then leave in peace.
For specific information about all aspects of Night Song, such as the choral ensembles, adding your name to the weekly email reminder list, or the literature that will be sung, see www.nightsong.org.
