I have some catching up to do! Way back at the beginning of October Paul and I had the joy of attending what has become an annual tradition for me: a concert commemorating the Transitus of St. Francis performed by Canticum Novum, a Phoenix chamber choir of professional singers who are dedicated to excellence in sacred choral music and volunteer in this group, in which Laurent sings soprano. I have attended several now, and always find it to be so very meaningful, falling as it does right next to October 2nd, the anniversary of my mother’s passing from this life to the next. This was Paul’s first time attending with me. This year I did my best to record each of the songs on the program, and this, Miserere Mei by Gregorio Allegri, was the finale. You can see people processing to the front during this piece. This was for those who wished to reverence a relic of St. Francis.
This is by far my favorite of the night. It is especially moving, not only because of the music, but the fact that my daughter gets to sing something so exquisite as that soaring soprano line. It’s such a privilege to be able to enjoy her gifts!
