Cunningham / Various - Ecumenical Spirit (CD)

Composer Michael G. Cunningham introduces the beauty of sacred choral compositions with the unique energy of the live recording. "Ecumenical" is defined as the promotion of unity among different Christian churches across the world, and ECUMENICAL SPIRIT celebrates the unifying powers of music as it transcends the borders of all differences. ECUMENICAL SPIRIT begins on a powerful note with the triumphant New Beginnings. With rousing percussion, resonant horns, and the incomparable energy of the full choir. This travels into The Annunciation, beginning with an ethereal, dissonant piano entrance before the women's choir rises into a lighter, major section, working through various prayers and intercessions. The piano and vocals almost seem to imitate each other as the piece flows through prayers, providing tones that are at times tender, chilling, triumphant, and fiery, but with each balancing the others out by the end. ECUMENICAL SPIRIT then works through various common prayers, from The Lord's Prayer to The Prayer of St. Francis as well as a spellbinding full Mass setting and a celebration of The Holy Spirit in six movements. The power of the live album is in the living, breathing reality of each moment. Background sounds and raw, untouched voices bring the listener right into the room as the work is being performed. ECUMENICAL SPIRIT brings the genuine reality of the live performance to listening ears, and Navona Live has preserved these energy-filled moments for future listeners to enjoy.