Dear lovers of music, mystery, and meaning,
The long days of early summer have sent us all in to a chaotic frenzy, and there is so much to explore and enjoy.
🔊 I have to tell you how much I was surprised recently by the symphonies of Czech composer Bohuslav Martinů. I simply had no idea these existed, and I am utterly captivated by them. They are kaleidescopic, rhapsodic, and ingenious. I'm particularly enjoying this recording by the Bamberg Symphony (Spotify).
📚 In my reading stack right now:
The long days of early summer have sent us all in to a chaotic frenzy, and there is so much to explore and enjoy.
🔊 I have to tell you how much I was surprised recently by the symphonies of Czech composer Bohuslav Martinů. I simply had no idea these existed, and I am utterly captivated by them. They are kaleidescopic, rhapsodic, and ingenious. I'm particularly enjoying this recording by the Bamberg Symphony (Spotify).
📚 In my reading stack right now:
- Homer's The Odyssey, in the translation by Emily Wilson.
- Make Your Home in This Luminous Dark: Mysticism, Art, and the Path of Unknowing, a new book from James K. A. Smith.
⛪ Yesterday's visit by Pope Leo XIV to La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona proved fascinating to the ear and the eye. A high point was hearing the plainsong hymn "Jesu dulcis memoria" introduced by brass and sung in procession. The use of so much traditional chant sung in Antoni Gaudí's evolving masterpiece was effective at this grand occasion.
Low points were hearing the discrepancy in tuning between the basilica's organs and the very Olympic-cauldron-lighting vibes of the tower lighting after the service. Happily, the organ re-claimed center stage before the dramatic light show from the church's interior.
Watch the whole thing here (YouTube)
Until next time,
-David
-David