DIVINE CHANT

Author: Milena Munteanu
Published in literary confluences
Issue no. 1949 of May 2, 2016

Byzantine Choir of Toronto has kept his word, returning the day of Saint George in front of a broad audience, as it promised to do, to support another one of thematic concerts according to the liturgical season of the year. After the first concerts held around Christmas, this time presented chants of Lent Pascal. We speak of a time of repentance, of confession, of sharing and prayer. The interior transformation that brings us closer to God.

The show started with a mini concert the sound of chopped produced four hammers reminded us of monastic sanctity and magic places home. There was a treat for the senses, a vocal concert perfectly synchronized. Male choirs are fascinating to me, and when voices construed Byzantine music, voice joints fabric creates a complex, sometimes unexpected but always enjoy the soul. Harmonization of faultless vocals sound effects create a rich texture and highly refinance. I was surprised to see that when voices are individualized, they are very diverse, each with stamps and distinctive textures. Their joints after the Byzantine pattern, which is woven into the text of the prayer makes spiritual believer to climb stairs bring you closer to the Creator.

The end of the concert bells add their charm over songs vocal performances. The concert ends as it began and the chop sound, though in a more intensive and sustained pace as before, which raises standing room. But notice how the choir puffed chests and pulling air into the lungs and only hear them chanting “God is with us!” With the help of the room, which they murmured in unison.

A word to the end of the concert reminds us that tonight we were presented rare pieces composed by Romanian composers monastic, to which was added the power of prayer. The evening becomes full and spiritually, and culturally, especially since we were delight the senses. In the hall were present pieces of fine art. Emilia Beraru presented a collection of Byzantine icons on wooden panels in egg tempera and gold leaf on canvas and glass icons in acrylic and acrylic painting that captures the Romanian village and Canadian landscape. Mrs. Andreea Cojocaru exhibited metaloplastic iconography technique, the copper foil has a look of relief, and other handmade craft items, inspired by our folklore.

Secretly, I hoped to have a moment recitative as we had in previous concerts, which I particularly appreciated. Father Stefan Morariu made a promise, namely that we will indulge in its recitation in the inspired performances to come, for Byzantine Choir wishes to continue this series of concerts. The next concert will take place probably in the autumn, between Saint Paraskevi and Saint Demetrios. We’re welcome. We enjoy the spiritual and cultural evenings held given to us by the Byzantine Choir of Toronto, we remember the significance of religious holidays. Moreover, we learn not only how to approach the Divinity, and that it is near us: “God is with us.” The faithful leave so refreshed and supported in the faith, even if he had come alone or felt before. During the concert, through Byzantine music, he made a step towards the Godhead.

Milena MUNTEANU
Toronto, Canada
April 27, 2016