tag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:/blogs/reflections-of-my-musicReflections of My Music2019-07-19T09:00:00-05:00Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musicfalsetag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/58198392019-07-19T09:00:00-05:002020-06-18T12:15:25-05:00Meet the Designer behind Holy Hope's Album Covers<p><a contents="Paul Vermeesch" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://paulvermeesch.com/about" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/d5239d9504a257e866d3770b41235efa4c5c67f6/original/beautiful-and-loving-cover-square.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Paul Vermeesch</a> has has been the creator of the album concept designs for Holy Hope’s past four albums: <a contents="Beautiful and Loving" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/1119959/beautiful-and-loving-holy-hope-choral" target="_blank">Beautiful and Loving</a>, <a contents="Longing for Home" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/1028644/longing-for-home" target="_blank">Longing for Home</a>, <a contents="Still I Wait" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/621319/still-i-wait" target="_blank">Still I Wait</a> and <a contents="Hope Abounds" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/555870/hope-abounds" target="_blank">Hope Abounds</a>.</p><!-- more -->
<p>Vermeesch has an interior depth that visually captures the essence and underlying themes of each Holy Hope album.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/58198312019-07-17T09:00:00-05:002022-05-11T14:12:02-05:00O Jesus, King of Love<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/fd80e8c73be2f6f8bad06897fd7600b00614d953/original/image-je-sus-roi-damour.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Beautiful and Loving contains a prayer that was given by Jesus to Sister Yvonne Aimée de Malstroit (1901-1951) - France: “O Jesus, King of Love, I put my trust in Your merciful goodness.” </p>
<p>I want to thank the <a contents="Augustines Sisters of Malestroit France" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.augustines-malestroit.com/index.html" target="_blank">Augustines Sisters of Malestroit France</a> for their generous permission in sharing this prayer Jesus gave to their Sister Yvonne Aimée de Malstroit and now with all of us…</p>
<p>Listen to <a contents="O, Jesus, King of Love" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1758343/oh-jesus-king-of-love-prayer-given-by-jesus-to-sister-yvonne-aimee-de-malstroit-1901-1951-france" target="_blank">O, Jesus, King of Love</a>.</p>3:24Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/63579012019-07-15T12:55:00-05:002020-06-18T13:01:05-05:00Inside Beautiful and Loving<p>Learn more about the songs on Holy Hope's newest album, Beautiful and Love: Holy Hope Choral</p><!-- more -->
<ol> <li>We Come to Adore* </li> <li>Mary Lead Us* </li> <li>Beautiful and Loving </li> <li>Mary’s Lullaby* </li> <li>Will I Ever Find My Way </li> <li>Holy Angels </li> <li>One in You* </li> <li>Holy, Your Face I Seek </li> <li>So Love May Fill the Earth </li> <li>O Jesus, King of Love** </li> <li>Behold, I Come* </li>
</ol>
<p>Lyrics and music by <strong>Kerry Douglass Keyser </strong><br>Conducted by: <strong>Elizabeth Kapitaniuk </strong><br>Vocalists: H<strong>eidi Shea, Anjali Chudasama, Hudson Taylor Brown, Ian Spacek</strong> <br>Piano accompaniment by: <strong>Enoch Leung </strong><br>Recorded at <strong>Wheaton College</strong> <br>Engineered by <strong>Joseph Abdelmelek </strong><br>Album design by <strong>Paul Vermeesch</strong> </p>
<p>*Arranged for SATB by <strong>Thomas Fielding </strong><br>*Conducted by <strong>Hudson Taylor Brown </strong><br>*Vocalists: <strong>Heidi Shea, Andra Jimenez, Anjali Chudasama, Lydia Park, Daniel Lee, Eric Rasmussen, Ian Spacek</strong> <br>** Lyrics are a prayer given by Jesus to Sister Yvonne Aimee de Malestroit (1901-1951)</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/1119959/beautiful-and-loving-holy-hope-choral" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/57571cf7af862d255ad58f3a5e675a107d5218eb/original/screenshot-2020-06-18-12-53-40.png" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /></a><a contents="Lyrics to each song are available within each song track for this album" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/1119959/beautiful-and-loving-holy-hope-choral" style="" target="_blank">Lyrics to each song are available within each song track for this album</a>.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/58198302019-07-10T10:07:09-05:002019-07-11T20:08:49-05:00Beautiful and Loving: New Choral Album Available!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/d5239d9504a257e866d3770b41235efa4c5c67f6/original/beautiful-and-loving-cover-square.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Beautiful and Loving is a window into the sacred. It brings us into the courts of heaven, to offer our song of praise, of love to the one who is Love Himself, joining with the unseen, yet ever present host of angels and saints who pray for us along our journey.</p><!-- more -->
<p>Composer, Kerry Douglass Keyser says, "The album stretched me in my own composition journey as at the outset I did not know how to arrange my musical and lyrical compositions for a four part, SATB (soprano, alto, tenor and bass) choir. Composer <a contents="Thomas Fielding" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.thomasfielding.com" target="_blank">Thomas Fielding</a> arranged my first five pieces for SATB. The remaining six pieces I was able to arrange for SATB with the guidance of my composition professor, <a contents="Dr. Shawn Okpebholo" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.shawnokpebholo.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Shawn Okpebholo</a>. Shawn has been an absolute joy to learn from and I am extremely grateful for his encouragement, inspiration and truly joyful and humble nature."</p>
<p>Thank you to Joseph Abdelmelek for recording our choir and for David Chown and Silvio Ciccone of <a contents="Lookout Music Productions" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://davidchown.com/" target="_blank">Lookout Music Productions</a> for their mastering of Beautiful and Loving. </p>
<p>With tremendous gratitude for all who helped bring about <a contents="Beautiful and Loving" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/1119959/beautiful-and-loving-holy-hope-choral">Beautiful and Loving</a>!</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/56773222019-03-12T07:33:17-05:002019-03-12T07:33:43-05:00New Album Release: Longing for Home<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/9e4a32eaf0cfab865d6007e20869d930b10e663d/original/longing-for-home-digital-album-cover.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />We are excited to share our newest solo piano album, composed and performed by Kerry Keyser. “Home” consists of the innocence of our past that at times we long to experience again. It is the “home” we are creating now, with the ones we love. It is also the longing for the “home” we will one day reside in where peace and love will reign. </p><!-- more -->
<p><a contents="Listen here." data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/1028644/longing-for-home" target="_blank">Listen here.</a> </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/56588522019-02-25T14:00:08-06:002019-02-25T14:29:27-06:00Building Bridges Breaking Bread <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/eb19cad47dc52a9931953e93fa954d52c12b9574/original/46253150-2257000281203336-4316346388100284956-n.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />On Saturday, March 2, <a contents="Rock Recovery" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.rockrecoveryed.org" target="_blank">Rock Recovery</a>, an organization dedicated to bridging eating-disorder treatment gaps, will host its 10th Anniversary Dinner Benefit, Building Bridges Breaking Bread, in Washington, DC. As apart of this special event, Kerry Keyser, composer and founder of Holy Hope Music has donated her current CDs to guests attending the benefit dinner. </p>
<p>Where some may struggle to quiet themselves, they may find that through the music of Holy Hope, they are more easily able to enter into a place of peace and rest. The songs elicit a sense of hope that comes from the assurance of God’s presence in all of life’s joys and trials. </p>
<p>Learn more about about the event: <a contents="https://www.rockrecoveryed.org/event/buildingbridgesbreakingbread/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.rockrecoveryed.org/event/buildingbridgesbreakingbread/" target="_blank">https://www.rockrecoveryed.org/event/buildingbridgesbreakingbread/</a></p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/55390122018-12-04T09:47:28-06:002018-12-04T09:47:28-06:00Hope Abounds for Joppa House<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/97fb6dff0ad3843345d6b8615a2bc672fdeb586a/original/joppahousesmall.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Holy Hope is grateful for the opportunity to support Joppa House in Charlevoix, MI by donating the “Hope Abounds” CD for their annual fundraiser. We are amazed by the transformational process that takes place for these women and the integrity and character they exude in the community. </p>
<p>To learn more about Joppa House, a Christ-centered home that incorporates a curriculum-based program for women who are homeless, or facing homelessness, due to a lack of support, resources, and/or life skills, please visit their website at <a contents="http://joppahouseministries.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://joppahouseministries.org" target="_blank">joppahouseministries.org</a></p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/63579292017-11-06T13:15:00-06:002020-06-18T13:15:40-05:00New Album: Still I Wait<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/6c0ab3384a676f6a9d1340e9f71e5414b47b0929/original/still-i-wait-square.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />We're excited to announce the release of Holy Hope's newest album, Still I Wait. The title was chosen as often in life we experience times of waiting. In our waiting it can be difficult to be patient, to be still, to accept what is, especially when there is something more, something greater that we desire, that is beyond our control. </p>
<p>In our powerlessness to change our circumstances, my hope is that in the stillness, in the waiting, we learn to find the grace and courage to let go, to trust, for in doing so, peace, acceptance, and hope await.</p><!-- more -->
<p><strong>Will I Ever Find My Way </strong></p>
<p>The unsung lyrics are sentiments of longing, wondering and pleading, "Will I ever find my way back home…please help me.” In our trials, fears and struggles, we can long for “home,” for that place that feels safe and comforting. Often we need help from God and others to find our way back to that place of refuge. </p>
<p><strong>Lord, I Need You </strong></p>
<p>The unsung lyrics are “Lord, I need you. Lord, I need you…to set me free.” The phrase “Lord, I need you” is repeated over and over again, in different tones and ranges, as a prayer of longing to be “set free” from turmoil and to experience God’s loving presence and peace. </p>
<p><strong>A Walk in Reverence </strong></p>
<p>Creates an expansiveness in which we may walk within the inner recesses of our hearts, experiencing wonder, simplicity, peace and innocence. </p>
<p><strong>A Love Left Longing </strong></p>
<p>Upon returning home from the musical “West Side Story,” I composed this song as a response to the “love left longing” between Maria and Tony due to their tragic deaths. </p>
<p><strong>Still I Wait </strong></p>
<p>Expresses the yearning hope we feel for a loved one to return, heal, and be fully present with us again. In the quiet of the nighttime silence, the inner aches and cries of the heart can no longer be stifled…”still I wait for you…” </p>
<p><strong>Majestic </strong><br>It is a dialogue between two people, capturing the bitter sweetness of life experiences and glimpses of the heavenly perspective. </p>
<p><strong>Our Last Song </strong><br>The unsung lyrics reflect the dialogue of needing to let go of the one(s) we love. “I must go,” is spoken, along with the needed reminder and comforting assurance that “I am with you always. </p>
<p><strong>Evening Prayer </strong></p>
<p>It is a peaceful reflection of the gratitude for all that was experienced throughout the day. </p>
<p><strong>Mary Lead Us </strong></p>
<p>In the midst of the challenges we face, we turn to others to help us. In faith, I turn to Blessed Mother Mary to “see me through” this life, safely to heaven. </p>
<p>The unsung lyrics are: </p>
<p>Holy Mary, loving Mother, lead us to your chosen Son. (2x) <br>1. I am searching, I am seeking and I cannot find my way. <br>Refrain: Mary lead us, Mary guide us, take us to our heavenly home. <br>Holy Mary, loving Mother, lead us to your chosen Son. (2x) <br>2. In my fears and in my longings, help me find the peace I seek. <br>3. May I trust you, may I give you, all that dwells within my heart. </p>
<p><strong>Life Together </strong></p>
<p>Shares the beauty and joy in the wonder of life lived together and the support in facing challenges together. </p>
<p><strong>Innocence </strong></p>
<p>The image that comes to mind is of one in a garden, taking in all the breathless wonders. Possessing a childlike innocence while experiencing all the joy and beauty of nature and life. </p>
<p><strong>So Love May Fill the Earth </strong></p>
<p>These words were written on Corpus Christi as an expression of Christ’s union with us and the transformative power of God’s love to change our lives…freeing us to love all we encounter, filling the earth with love. </p>
<p>The unsung lyrics are: </p>
<p>I am the vine you are the branch abide in me always. <br>As the Father lives in me so I will live in you. <br>Eat my body drink my blood, that’s been shed for you. <br>Eat my body drink my blood and I’ll be one with you. <br>Eat my body drink my blood. Eat my body drink my blood, <br>Trust in me and you will find that I am in your midst. <br>Listen for my still soft voice and there you’ll find your way. <br>My peace I leave, my peace I give, may peace be in your heart. <br>Love as I have first loved you so love may fill the earth. So love may fill the earth… </p>
<p><strong>Awash With Love </strong></p>
<p>Expresses the joy and wonder of love.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/48690392017-09-28T12:46:51-05:002017-09-28T12:47:45-05:00Holy Hope Music Donates to Non Profit Organizations <p>Holy Hope Music recently contributed to two non-profit organizations for their major fundraiser events in 2017. </p><!-- more -->
<p><strong>Clapham Classical School</strong><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/e9843e197c6326f12c4813a41036eed1caa9ae1a/small/claphamlogo-header.png?1506620774" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Holy Hope is excited to support <a contents="Clapham Classical School" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://claphamschool.org" target="_blank">Clapham Classical School</a> in Wheaton, IL by donating our “Hope Abounds” CD for their Fall Benefit. We admire Clapham’s ability to form joyful life-long learners, their pursuit of the true, good and beautiful, and living lives of faith in service to others. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>St. Mary’s Catholic School</strong><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/ff804af16bde657a8d184d4033f8f822853bbd98/small/badge.png?1506620774" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Holy Hope was excited to donate the “Hope Abounds” CD to <a contents="St. Mary’s Catholic School in Charlevoix, MI" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://stmaryschoolcharlevoix.com" target="_blank">St. Mary’s Catholic School in Charlevoix, MI</a> for their fundraiser. We appreciate the teachers and their ability to form our children in lives of virtue, faith, service and excellence in education.</p>
<p>We are honored to have been a part of these amazing organizations' events. If you're interested in having Holy Hope Music featured at your event, contact us. </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/48298032017-08-29T07:28:07-05:002017-08-29T07:33:59-05:00Even More Artists from Hope Abounds<p>To continue our series, here are two more artists who contributed to the <a contents="Hope Abounds" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/555870/hope-abounds" target="_blank">Hope Abounds</a> album. Meet Lea Wells and Ryan Dailey. </p><!-- more -->
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Lea Wells</span></strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/a7d58f7f9c1fb89d62d305bc3e1a4637fffb2b38/medium/14435148-1201789069881352-8592627092025187272-o.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" width="300px" />In 2019, Lea Wells will graduate from Wheaton College with her Bachelor's Degree in Music, with Elective Studies in Business. Apart from her musical studies and her participation in the Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra, Lea is a freelance oboist who plays gigs around the Chicagoland area. </p>
<p>Lea is the oboist for <a contents="Glorioso" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279249/glorioso-oboe-piano">Glorioso</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Ryan Dailey</span></strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/b18c549e4de869e98bc216619d16756793a71001/medium/maxresdefault.jpg?1504009612" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Ryan Dailey is a junior music education major and trombonist at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. He is the principal trombonist in various Wheaton College ensembles, such as the Symphonic Band, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and the Brass Quintet. Ryan hopes to serve as a band director in either a private or public school setting. In his free time, he enjoys camping, canoeing, and sports of any kind. </p>
<p>Ryan is the trombonist for <a contents="Dance of Joy" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279240/dance-of-joy-brass-quartet">Dance of Joy</a>. </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/48146732017-08-15T12:42:54-05:002018-10-11T10:45:53-05:00Meet More Artists Behinds 'Hope Abounds'<p>Last week, we met <a contents="three musicians who performed" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://holyhopemusic.com/news/blog/meet-the-musicians-behind-hope-abounds" target="_blank">three musicians who performed</a> on the new album, <em>Hope Abounds</em>. This week, we're excited to introduce you to two more artists, Elliot Leung and Paul Vermeesch, who also contributed to the <a contents="Holy Hope Orchestrated: Hope Abounds" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/555870/hope-abounds" target="_blank">Holy Hope Orchestrated: Hope Abounds</a> album. </p><!-- more -->
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Elliot Leung</span></strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/a18b51d33e5fcbc5452fa4573ef0cec327884a27/medium/conducting-edit.jpg?1502810578" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Elliot Leung is a composer, orchestrator and multi-instrumentalist. Leung began his musical training at age 5 in the <a contents="Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.hkapa.edu" target="_blank">Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts</a> under Mr. Laurent Perrin and obtained ABRSM performance diplomas in both cello and piano at a very young age. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Composition from <a contents="Wheaton Conservatory of Music" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wheaton.edu/wheaton-college-conservatory-of-music/" target="_blank">Wheaton Conservatory of Music</a>, where he was privately taught by Marty O' Donnell, David M. Gordon and Shawn E. Okpebholo. While attending, he was the winner of the Schultheis Chamber Music Composition Competition. He began his career by working as Leon Ko's scoring assistant on 暴瘋語 (Insanity), a cinema blockbuster from Hong Kong in 2014.</p>
<p>Elliot arranged the songs on the Hope Abounds album. </p>
<p>You can connect with Elliot via his <a contents="website" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elliotleung.com" target="_blank">website</a>, or on <a contents="Instagram" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.instagram.com/leungelliot/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a contents="Facebook" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/elliotleungmusic?ref=bookmarks" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Paul Vermeesch</span></strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/0081b9f95cd5cc862c6019de0d9e05119c624c90/medium/23115400511-948acf03b9.jpg?1502818888" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Paul Vermeesch is a student and artist who dreams of being a real-life explorer. When not tinkering with plastic, pixels, or platitudes, Paul might be off in the woods, training horses, or debating Terrence Malick films. Hailing from a farm in the rural hinterlands of Northern Michigan, he is currently enrolled as a student at Wheaton College. He designed the album cover for Hope Abounds.</p>
<p>You can visit his website at <a contents="paulvermeesch.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://paulvermeesch.com" target="_blank">paulvermeesch.com</a></p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/48053912017-08-07T12:28:16-05:002018-10-11T10:45:26-05:00Meet the Musicians Behind 'Hope Abounds'<p>In developing Holy Hope’s orchestrated album “Hope Abounds”, composer Kerry Douglass Keyser collaborated with a number of musicians from the <a contents="Wheaton College Conservatory of Music" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wheaton.edu/wheaton-college-conservatory-of-music/" target="_blank">Wheaton College Conservatory of Music</a>. Over the next few months, we'll be profiling some of these musicians. Today, let's meet Elizabeth Kapitaniuk, Christina Schempf, and Elisabeth Follman. </p><!-- more -->
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Elizabeth Kapitaniuk</strong></span></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/a83b0f896bf00487eb2926a21b492b18d7bc4992/medium/elizabeth-kapitaniuk.jpg?1502126404" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Elizabeth Kapitaniuk is completing her Bachelors in Music Education at the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music (IL). She studies clarinet with Trevor O’Riordan and has served as Principal Clarinetist of the Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Band for the past few years. In 2015-16, she performed as one of the concerto competition winners with the orchestra in their home concert and tour to Southern California. </p>
<p>She served in administrative roles on the Symphonic Band cabinet from 2013-2016, two years as President and Vice President. She is also a conductor who has studied under Dr. Daniel Sommerville and Dr. John W. Trotter. Additionally, she has participated in the Conductors Institute of South Carolina, worked in master classes with Maestro John Nelson, and has conducted the Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Concert Choir, and independently organized ensembles in various concert performances and new work premiers. </p>
<p>As an educator, she has taught private clarinet students in the Chicagoland area for the past six years, ranging from beginners to advanced high school students, and works as a Teaching Assistant at Birch Creek Music Performance Center during their summer Symphony Orchestra session. She is a member of the National Association for Music Education, College Orchestra Director’s Association, and The Conductor’s Guild. In 2017, she was awarded The Presser Foundation Scholarship by the Wheaton College Conservatory. </p>
<p>Elizabeth plays on the song <a contents="Hope Abounds" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279250/hope-abounds-clarinet-cello-piano" target="_blank">Hope Abounds</a>. </p>
<p><a contents="Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-kapitaniuk-823884a4/" target="_blank">Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn</a>. </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Christina Schempf </span></strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/259eaa70ae280d63a37ca7582a3540adcef22fc7/medium/christina-schempf.jpg?1502126557" class="size_m justify_left border_" alt="Photo by: Sarah Bernhardt" />Originally a native of the rolling farmland of southeastern Wisconsin, Christina recently completed her Bachelor of Music in Performance at Wheaton College in the spring of 2017. Christina has performed with the Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra, Camerata Chicago, the Symphony of Oak Park and River Forest, Classical Symphony Orchestra, Benefit Brass, and the College Light Opera Company. She is a student of Melanie Cottle and has studied with Douglas Hill in the past. Christina is currently pursuing graduate studies in horn performance at the New England Conservatory with Richard Sebring. </p>
<p>Christina is passionate about cultivating a rich and diverse appreciation for music in the coming generation of musicians. She has coached sectionals and chamber ensembles at Wheaton Academy, completed a practicum at Monroe Middle School, and enjoys teaching students privately. This past summer, she was engaged in a music residency with the Intersect Arts Center, an organization that provides arts education to underserved communities in St. Louis. She was employed as a teacher aid of a conflict resolution camp which combined music, dance, and technology to address issues of violence and collaborated with various visual artists to produce a multimedia event that included a gallery opening and concert. </p>
<p>Aside from her pursuits in music, Christina enjoys various outdoor recreational activities including backpacking, distance biking, skiing, and horseback riding. She also loves to spend her time reading poetry and doing stained glass. She has two loving, supportive parents, three inspiring siblings, and an adorable baby godson.</p>
<p>Christina plays on the song <a contents="Dance of Joy" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279240/dance-of-joy-brass-quartet" target="_blank">Dance of Joy</a>, <a contents="Mysterium" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279243/mysterium-french-horn-piano" target="_blank">Mysterium</a>, and <a contents="Our Last Song" data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279251/our-last-song-french-horn-piano" target="_blank">Our Last Song</a>. </p>
<p>Visit <a contents="Christina's website" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://christinaschempf.weebly.com" target="_blank">Christina's website</a> or <a contents="connect with her on Instagram" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.instagram.com/cschempf/" target="_blank">connect with her on Instagram</a>. </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">Elisabeth Follman</span></strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/9f17b4b9107bf0906590c28e9af19e5aa7027dd4/medium/elisabeth-follman.jpeg?1502126868" class="size_m justify_left border_" alt="Photo Credit: Paul Sanchez" />Elisabeth Follman is a Chicago-based trumpet player. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the Wheaton College Conservatory. While at Wheaton, Elisabeth was engaged as Principal trumpet of the Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra and participated in the Showcase jazz combo. She has also played as Principal trumpet in the Conservatory's Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble. Ms. Follman's primary teachers have included Herbert Smith, Dr. Terry Schwartz, and Kari Lee Phelps. Most recently, Elisabeth studied with Mark Ridenour. </p>
<p>Elisabeth plays on the song <a contents="Dance of Joy." data-link-label="" data-link-type="track" href="/track/1279240/dance-of-joy-brass-quartet" target="_blank">Dance of Joy.</a> </p>
<p>Visit <a contents="Elisabeth's website" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://elisabethfollman.weebly.com" target="_blank">Elisabeth's website</a> or connect with her on <a contents="Facebook" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/elisabeth.follman" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a contents="Instagram" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.instagram.com/bizfollman/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/47820342017-08-02T09:23:15-05:002017-08-02T09:23:15-05:00Offertory and Communion Chamber Music from Holy Hope<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/cb2679704c402ebd211f5e8c25d8026f72a27a95/medium/3536591759-1fcf436d12-z.jpg?1500311834" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Each of the songs from the “Hope Abounds” album are reflective and stirring, and they are ideal as instrumental offertory and communion songs for any church. The <a contents="album" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/555870/hope-abounds" target="_blank">album</a> has songs fitting for the joyful liturgical seasons of Easter and Ordinary time, as well as the preparatory, penitential seasons of Advent and Lent.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/47820252017-07-24T12:30:07-05:002017-07-24T12:30:07-05:00Wedding Chamber Music from Holy Hope<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/8dc20a94114d5cc218da46ed32c8bfd6322e9714/medium/pexels-photo-164924.jpeg?1500311572" class="size_m justify_right border_" />The following songs from the album “Hope Abounds” are perfect to consider for weddings. These chamber ensemble arrangements reflect the intimate, glorious bond of love through the dialogue of the various instruments. </p>
<p>Composer Kerry Douglass Keyser walked down the aisle in her own wedding to the oboe-piano arrangement of “Glorioso." “Communion of Love” and “Draw Near” were two of her prelude songs. </p>
<ul> <li>Glorioso - for oboe, piano </li> <li>Communion of Love - for violin, cello, piano </li> <li>Hope Abounds - for clarinet, cello, piano </li> <li>Draw Near - for viola, piano </li> <li>Dance of Joy - for brass quartet </li> <li>Andante - for violin, cello, piano </li> <li>A Love Left Longing - for violin, viola, cello, piano</li>
</ul>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/47820222017-07-17T12:10:05-05:002018-10-11T10:46:21-05:00The Making of Hope Abounds<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/1e500e4ec30b67e8e1370f60ac846a4a22333d2e/medium/hope-abounds-digital-album-cover.jpg?1500307976" class="size_m justify_left border_" />The making of the “Hope Abounds” album was sheer joy! I cannot speak highly enough of all the musicians I collaborated with from the <a contents="Wheaton Conservatory of Music" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.wheaton.edu/wheaton-college-conservatory-of-music/" target="_blank">Wheaton Conservatory of Music</a>. </p>
<p><a contents="Elliot Leung" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.elliotleung.com" target="_blank">Elliot Leung</a> was my first connection with the Conservatory. A humble, energetic and <a contents="extremely creative composer" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/leunge0" target="_blank">extremely creative composer</a> beyond his years, Elliot was a real blessing and opened up new avenues for inviting other musicians into the music of Holy Hope. </p>
<p>Over and over again I was impressed with the dynamics among the musicians of the various ensembles. With shared mutual respect, everyone contributed suggestions to enhance the arrangements. </p>
<p>Our recording engineer, Joseph Abdelmelek, brought a keen ear that was attentive to every detail and was critical to the smoothness and overall success of the recording sessions. </p>
<p><a contents="Paul Vermeesch" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://paulvermeesch.com" target="_blank">Paul Vermeesch</a>, our graphic designer, did a phenomenal job visually capturing the essence of the music of “Hope Abounds”. </p>
<p>Above and beyond the musical, recording and graphic design talent, I was most impressed with the depth of character, respect, kindness and thoughtfulness of each person who contributed to Holy Hope Orchestrated. </p>
<p>With much gratitude…</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/f5064d96234f219128ea2fbfcac5bba583be947a/original/hope-abounds-cd-inside-panel.jpg?1500383124" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/46875952017-04-27T12:18:17-05:002017-04-27T12:19:05-05:00Hope<p>The theme of this year's <a contents="TED&nbsp;conference" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ted.com">TED conference</a> was "The Future You," and Pope Francis surprised the audience with <a contents="his own talk." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ted.com/talks/pope_francis_why_the_only_future_worth_building_includes_everyone">his own talk.</a> His Holiness delivered a plainspoken sermon on the importance of interconnection and tenderness. In his talk, he spoke about the importance of hope: </p><!-- more -->
<blockquote>"For us Christians, the future does have a name, and this name is Hope. Feeling hopeful does not mean to be optimistically naive and ignore the tragedy humanity is facing. Hope is the virtue of a heart that doesn't lock itself into darkness, that doesn't dwell on the past, does not simply get by in the present, but is able to see a tomorrow. Hope is the door that opens onto the future. ... A single individual is enough for hope to exist, and that individual can be you. And then there will be another "you," and another "you," and it turns into an "us." And so, does hope begin when we have an "us?" No. Hope began with one "you." When there is an "us," there begins a revolution."<br> </blockquote>
<div style="max-width:640"><div style="position:relative;height:0;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" scrolling="no" src="https://embed.ted.com/talks/pope_francis_why_the_only_future_worth_building_includes_everyone" style="position:absolute;left:0;top:0;width:100%;height:100%" width="640"></iframe></div></div>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/46500882017-03-29T09:17:14-05:002017-03-29T09:20:31-05:00Happy Piano DayToday is <a contents="National Piano Day" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.pianoday.org" target="_blank">National Piano Day</a>! <p>Piano Day, a annual worldwide event founded by a group of likeminded people, takes place on the 88th day of the year – in 2017 it’s the 29th March – because of the number of keys on the instrument being celebrated. </p><!-- more -->
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/6d2d22e426bf2b991aabc148bdee1960d5adc136/original/one-man-gets-nothing-but-discord-out-of-a-piano-another-gets-harmony-no-one-claims-the-piano-is-at-fault-life-is-about-the-same-the-discord-is-there-and-the-harmony-is-there-study-to-play-it-correctly-and-it-w.png?1490797010" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The aim of the day is to create a platform for piano related projects in order to promote the development of musical dimensions and to continue sharing the centuries-old joy of playing piano. Piano Day welcomes all kinds of piano lovers — young and old, amateur and professional, of any musical direction. It is intended to be the most joyful of all holidays!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/631df187498957554495cf773c3ecdd81021c51b/original/the-piano-gives-voice-to-the-deepest-expressions-within-the-heart-often-before-one-knows-the-words.png?1490796971" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/45735292017-02-02T09:18:49-06:002017-03-07T13:32:12-06:00Transcendent Nature of Music<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/cc663dd042aeeded7b51e5a50ea479e3d7622490/medium/sheet-music.jpg?1486048674" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><em>By Kerry Douglass Keyser</em><br><br>I recently started working with another composer, <a contents="Thomas Fielding" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.thomasfielding.com" target="_blank">Thomas Fielding</a>, to arrange some of my songs for four part choirs. Today, in listening to Tom's arrangement of my song, I was deeply struck by the transcendent nature of music. </p><!-- more -->
<p>I've always loved being part of an ensemble as there is something profoundly moving for me to be part of something greater, beyond myself, in which I participate. </p>
<p>Today that happened. My simple piece was transformed into something magnificent, something greater and beyond me, that can only be experienced with the coming together of many different voices, finding their harmony as one.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/43506552016-08-31T11:09:00-05:002016-08-31T11:09:50-05:00Holy Hope Music Helps Local Chicago Non Profits <p>Two non-profit organizations in the greater Chicago area have sought out the music of HolyHope for their major fundraiser events in 2016. </p>
<p><strong>Evening of Hope</strong><br>Desiring the message and experience of “hope” to continue long after their fund raiser event in February 2016, <a contents="Waterleaf Family Planning Center" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.waterleafwc.org/evening-of-hope/" target="_blank">Waterleaf Family Planning Center</a> gave each of the 600 guests at their “Evening of Hope” event HolyHope’s <a contents="“Abide” CD" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/235912/abide">“Abide” CD</a>. </p>
<p><strong>Purple Project</strong><br>The head of <a contents="Purple Project" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.purpleproject.org" target="_blank">Purple Project</a>, a non profit organization that supports those who are grieving was a recipient of the “Abide” CD. She was moved by the music and wanted to share the hope and consolation experienced when listening to the music of HolyHope with those who are grieving. In August 2016, the 800 guests who were in attendance at the Purple Project “Night of Hope” fundraiser event each received a <a contents="“Communion of Love” CD" data-link-label="" data-link-type="album" href="/album/355322/communion-of-love">“Communion of Love” CD</a>.<br><br>We are honored to have been a part of these amazing organizations' events. If you're interested in having Holy Hope Music featured at your event, <a contents="contact us" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">contact us</a>. </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/42084502016-06-05T14:32:01-05:002017-01-16T07:38:41-06:00Join the Holy Hope Music Community<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/c64732205b0ff4d9195325b7eb2b13ffe8555023/medium/hope.jpg?1464886241" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" />Throughout life, sounds positively and negatively affects our physical and emotional well-being. At Holy Hope Music, it’s our mission to create music that enhances our lives as a means of teaching, celebrating and expressing ourselves. Here are few ways our music aims to inspire others. </p><!-- more -->
<p><strong>Music Therapy</strong> </p>
<p>Music Therapy is an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Music is a universal bridge between people and their experiences and it is such a tender, healing moment when a person can be embraced by music. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. </p>
<p>If you’re a hospice program or music therapist looking for new music to incorporate into your practice, please <a contents="contact us" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">contact us</a>. </p>
<p><strong>Prayer and Meditation </strong></p>
<p>Holy Hope Music is an inspiring resource for worship, prayer and reflection whose songs are influenced by love, faith, healing, comfort in grief and strength. We encourage you to use our music for personal devotion, in small group settings and in church services and larger gatherings. </p>
<p>If you’re interested in downloading sheet music for your church, please <a contents="contact us" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">contact us</a>. </p>
<p><strong>Music Education </strong></p>
<p>Piano teaches a student to focus and concentrate, while helping students develop memorization and build confidence. Holy Hope Music is perfect for the beginner piano student, as well as the more experienced pianist as the composition is simple and meditative. </p>
<p>If you’re interested in downloading sheet music for your piano lessons, please <a contents="contact us" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">contact us</a>. </p>
<p>Holy Hope Music strives to create music that positively impact others’ lives. Our goal is to enrich our community and contribute to its cultural fabric by offering music that upholds the meditative nature of inspiration and worship through solo piano. We look forward to connecting with you. </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/41268032016-04-08T09:07:07-05:002017-01-16T07:38:41-06:00Behind the Music<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/71c2754c86d523b8ad358bfa31afcb39a917c5ad/medium/inside-left-panel.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="Communion of Love" />Behind every song is a story. Learn more about the stories behind the songs on my new album "Communion of Love"</p><!-- more -->
<p><strong>We Come to Adore</strong> - Lyrics are as follows, each line sung twice.</p>
<p>We come to adore You, we come to adore.<br>Holy Spirit rain down the fire of Your love.<br>Burn within us a holy love that will transform our lives<br>For you are God eternal and we bow in fear and awe.</p>
<p><strong>Communion of Love</strong> - is a dialogue between two people about their desire and hesitation and the joy they experience in the love they share for one another. </p>
<p><strong>Verdant Pastures</strong> - is a song of peacefulness and rest whose composition flowed after practicing “Heartbeat.” One can hear remnants of the “Heartbeat” in the bass. The theme in the beginning and the end were then further developed in “Communion of Love” as love for the Divine was extended to love for another. </p>
<p><strong>Andante</strong> - is giving expression to that which has been voiceless. </p>
<p><strong>Abide</strong> - is a prayer of the heart. It is the quieting of oneself in the presence of God to receive His healing touch. </p>
<p><strong>Remembrance</strong> - captures the longing and reaching for someone or something and the sadness in not being able to attain it. Then, in striving again, connection is experienced and there is joy, peace and the ability to breathe anew in the remembrance and the presence of love. </p>
<p><strong>Mysterium</strong> - After practicing an etude in a minor key, I unintentionally created my own song in the Phrygian Mode by leaving out the sharp. This adds to the uniqueness and mysteriousness of the song as most songs are typically written in a major or minor key. </p>
<p><strong>Goodbye</strong> - is a dialogue of two people reminiscing about times shared together. The song then transitions into the longing to remain together and the ache that results in having to say goodbye before one is ready. </p>
<p><strong>Mystical Union</strong> - is a song about the union of heaven and earth. It is a song about the opening up of Heaven and the glimpse of how close God really is to us. </p>
<p><strong>Heartbeat</strong> - the bass line maintains the constant pulse of a heartbeat with the low D. The openness creates a feeling of expansiveness as one journeys through their heart. </p>
<p>I often imagine being in the heart of Christ when listening to this song. Being in His heart and experiencing His love gives me the courage to then walk within my own heart to see and experience what is within me. </p>
<p><strong>Draw Near</strong> - the unspoken words are “Draw near, draw near, draw near to me.” The song was birthed from the joy in connecting and drawing near to loved ones. </p>
<p><strong>Glorioso</strong> - reflects the joy of a new day, a new season, opening our eyes to the beauty and life around us and within us. </p>
<p><strong>Dance of Joy</strong> - is an ornamented and slightly altered syncopated version of Abide.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/40875202016-03-15T10:00:00-05:002017-01-16T07:38:41-06:00Communion of Love is Now Available!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/35d653b0c616772f2bbd467df5180544d6b4cc0e/medium/cover-web.png?0" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="Communion of Love" />I'm so excited to announce that my second album, <em>Communion of Love</em> is now available! This album, my second, represents two different sides of love — desire tempered by hesitation and the joy experienced by giving your heart to another. Musically, it is a Christian instrumental worship record which merges an array of genres such as spiritual, new age, as well as the usage of piano. Some of the songs are autobiographical in nature while others are reflections of God’s Love. </p><!-- more -->I hope that you enjoy it!
<p>Thank you for supporting my music, and as always, thank you for supporting me.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/40674582016-03-01T12:10:28-06:002017-01-16T07:38:41-06:00Coming Soon! Kerry Douglass's 2nd Album: Communion of Love<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/35d653b0c616772f2bbd467df5180544d6b4cc0e/medium/cover-web.png?0" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" width="200px" />We're excited to announce that Kerry Douglass's second album, <em>Communion of Love</em>, will be released soon. </p><!-- more -->Thematically the album represents two different sides of love — desire tempered by hesitation and the joy experienced by giving your heart to another. Musically, it maintains the meditative nature of inspiration and worship through solo piano. Some of the songs are autobiographical in nature while others are reflections of God’s Love.
<p><br>The new album will be available for digital download soon! </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/40544872015-06-10T16:55:00-05:002021-12-09T13:12:23-06:00Description of Abide Songs<p>The “Abide” album is an invitation to take a few minutes to quiet yourself and listen to what is within. In the stillness may you find the courage to bring your love, your pain, your longings, your struggles and ultimately yourself to God. In giving God all that you carry in your heart, may you experience God’s presence. May your heart be renewed as it is filled with peace, hope, and love as you come and “Abide”. </p><!-- more -->
<p><strong>Andante </strong>- is giving expression to that which has been voiceless. </p>
<p><strong>Abide</strong> - is a prayer of the heart. It is the quieting of oneself in the presence of God to receive His healing touch. </p>
<p><strong>Goodbye</strong> - is a dialogue of two people reminiscing about times shared together. The song then transitions into the longing to remain together and the ache that results in having to say goodbye before one is ready. <br> <br><strong>Mystical Union</strong> - is a song about the union of heaven and earth. It is a song about the opening up of Heaven and the glimpse of how close God really is to us. </p>
<p>The desire to write such a song had been in my heart for a while. The music for part of this song came one morning prior to attending a Good Friday service. I was struggling though to complete the song. I knew that God needed to do an interior work within me before the remainder of the song could be composed. During the Good Friday service while everyone was venerating the cross, I had a powerful experience in prayer. It was from that spiritual experience with God that the remainder of this song was inspired. </p>
<p><strong>Ubi Caritas</strong> - is a Taize chant, often sung on Holy Thursday. Taize music is a form of meditative prayer based on the contemplation of a repetitive phrase. <br> <br>Lyrics: Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est. <br>Translation: Where charity and love are, God is there. <br> </p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/40544882015-06-08T16:55:00-05:002016-02-22T15:52:54-06:00Discovery of Hidden Realities<p>“‘I don’t search, I find,’ said Picasso, commenting on the fact that, for him at least, creativity was not a lengthy process of trial and error but the discovery of a hidden reality tucked away in the immediacy of the here and now.” Veronique Vienne </p>
<p>I love this notion of setting out to unveil a hidden reality. </p>
<p>Often I try to uncover what is going on within me at a deeper level. Sometimes I discover a hidden reality while talking through things with a trusted friend. Other times journaling helps me see in black and white the things previously swirling in my head. </p>
<p>When I can’t find the words to give expression to what is within me, I turn to music: listening, playing and creating. </p>
<p>Often when I am grappling with things I sit down at the piano to express what I am feeling inside. Once I have a few rough ideas, I record the melody on my phone. Sometimes when I play the new melody back, I find myself crying. </p>
<p>In the creative expression of my piano musings, hidden realities are unveiled. </p>
<p>The songs I compose speak first and foremost to me, they set my heart free. </p>
<p>“You, too, can play it by ear: All you have to do is listen. Spontaneity springs from a quiet place deep inside yourself, and if you pay attention, you can find its source.” <em>Veronique Vienne</em></p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Musictag:holyhopemusic.com,2005:Post/40544892015-06-02T16:55:00-05:002017-01-16T07:38:41-06:00My Musical Background<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/149718/266edb73f01c0e19b57ca557dd01b7058c05304e/original/p2010349.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_left border_" width="300px" />Some skills in life we spend years developing and perfecting. Other talents are simply given to us with an unexplained proficiency. My journey in piano composition and performance has been much the latter. </p>
<p>Yes, I have had formal music training, though it was focused on oboe and English horn performance. </p>
<p>In college, I also studied music theory and learned the basics of chord progressions. I dabbled with brief composition exercises though certainly never imagined one day composing my own music. </p>
<p>My ability to compose, let alone perform, music for the piano however is a gift from God. I spent years studying and practicing the oboe. Not so with the piano. </p>
<p>I had a brief introduction to the piano in elementary school, and then a single semester of formal study in college. My piano skills to this day are still quite minimal. </p>
<p>The fact that I am not an accomplished pianist keeps my songs simple and meditative. There is no fancy ornamentation to my songs. I simply don’t have that piano ability. </p>
<p>God, by His lavish grace, has given me the exact measure needed to compose and perform songs that are prayerful and a reflection of His own heart for us.</p>Holy Hope - Holy Hope Music