WYCLIFFE GORDON & FRIENDS

As we continue our journey through this Lenten Season, I want to reflect on our virtual concert with Wycliffe Gordon which aired on Facebook this past weekend. Wycliffe and his music comes to us from the world stage but most importantly it comes to us from his heart. I believe this has always been evident in his performances here at St. Gregory's. However, in this special presentation we saw a more personal side of Wycliffe as he introduced the various sets of music throughout the show. As he described the first time he ever heard "Londonderry Air" as a child, everyone was so incredibly moved by his genuine spirit and heartfelt dedication to God through Christ which shined like a bright light, illuminating us all to the power of music and it's effect on one's soul.

Many people from around the world tuned in over the course of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to hear this concert which was a compilation of newly recorded material featuring Wycliffe, Cantor Magda Fishman, and myself, and selections from two past concerts recorded here at St. Gregory's. Local youth trumpet sensation, Summer Camargo, wowed the audience in 2019 and jazz/gospel singer Dee Daniels brought down the house in 2018. These were performances that touched the lives of many when they attended in person, and now they have touched the lives of thousands around the world through this new medium of "virtual concert." This online concert made a profound difference in how St. Gregory's is now able to reach the world through its Great Music at St. Gregory's Concert Series, touching countless lives through the power and witness of music, and Transforming Hearts and Community Through Jesus' Love.

Tim Brumfield