Violinist and Recording Artist
Composer and Arranger
TOO DEEP FOR WORDS
NOTES ON THE MUSIC:
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These are original arrangements of traditional and contemporary hymns specially chosen and organized in a chiastic form, similar to how parts of the Bible have been written, such that the beginning corresponds to the end. Each hymn is a concentric circular embrace for the central hymn and subject found at track 8, “Jesus Paid It All”.
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1. "Holy, Holy, Holy!” - The music is a proclamation of heaven and a tribute to J.S. Bach, the master of glorious counterpoint. We enter worship and all of the instruments are praising in agreement. “All Thy works shall praise Thy name."
2. "How Deep the Father’s Love for Us" - This is a peaceful meditation on our gratitude for the Father who gave his only Son so that we can be saved. There is a sense of sadness and remorse for our sins.
3. "Be Thou My Vision" - This hymn has an Irish and pastoral feeling. We pray for divine guidance and we ask to be filled with the light of Wisdom and Truth.
4. "I Need Thee Every Hour" - The music starts with a drone tone symbolizing our need to feel God's presence. We yearn to be blessed and comforted.
5. "Breathe on Me, Breath of God" - We start in a somber mood, reflecting on our human condition. The music becomes luminous as we ask God to inspire us to live a new life with a pure heart. We ask Him to teach us how to love and how to do the right thing.
6. "And Can it Be?" - We contemplate God's amazing love for us, and we celebrate his grace and generosity to free us from the burden of sin. "My chains fell off; my heart was free." The music ends with the suspenseful question: "And Can it Be?"
7. "O God, Our Help" - The beginning chord's answer is "YES!" The good news is real! God gave, and always will give us help, hope and shelter from the storm. We rejoice in God's amazing creations and ask him to be our guide as we live in His eternal home.
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8. "Jesus Paid it All" - This is the MAIN IDEA of this CD. The music is simple and unadorned. We are reduced to a humble reverence for Him who died because of our sins. The "Amen" at the end is a sigh of liberation. A new beginning is possible here and now because Jesus forgave our sins and wanted us to live a better life, with integrity.
9. "To God Be the Glory" - This is a cheerful fanfare honoring God. As we move away from sin, we celebrate our new life following into His steps.
10. "Blessed Assurance" - When we embrace God and his values, we find happiness, serenity and peace, rejoicing in his goodness.
11. "Spirit of the Living God" - Like fearless puppies greeting their owners, we greet God with great enthusiasm. We anticipate great adventures under His leadership and enlightenment.
12. "Be Still, My Soul" - With music by J. Sibelius, we reflect on the strength we find in God. During difficult times, we are reminded to be patient and follow the voice of God.
13. "Fairest Lord Jesus" - The music goes from light to pure bliss as we praise God and all of His creation.
14. "O Love That Will Not Let Me Go" - As the end draws near, we look back and ponder on our lives. We find peace and comfort in knowing that Life and God are endless. The music is a tribute to W. A. Mozart.
15. "Agnus Dei" - The title means "Lamb of God". We slowly approach Heaven after our bell tolls. The music grows, seeming to transcend time and place.