JAMESTOWN – WRFA Public Affairs Director Jason Sample interviews Jordan Sramek, Founder/Artistic and Executive Director of the Rose Ensemble from Minneapolis, Minn.
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (410 North Main Street, Jamestown, NY) will host the Rose Ensemble’s performance “Land of Three Faiths; Voices of Mediterranean Jews, Christians and Muslims” on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public, though donations will be accepted.
The Rose Ensemble
The result of years of intensive research and training, Sramek explains how “Land of Three Faiths” is at once sacred, secular, folk, and classical, embarking on a fascinating exploration of language, spirituality, and cultural exchange.
Featuring instruments and musical ideas that blur the lines between Arabic and European, this entertaining and enlightening program is steeped in the rich history of the Abrahamic faiths, achieving a perfect balance of edgy improvisation, exotic vocal styles, and ancient traditions.
Highlighting the Hispano-Arabic Middle Ages as both an important and devastating chapter of Judaic, Christian, and Islamic history, laments of the Sephardic Jews mingle with Arab-Andalusian dances and Spanish court songs, while rhythmic cantigas, Hebrew cantillation, and Gregorian chant meet the mystical world of Sufi poetry.
The Rev. Luke Fodor, Rector of St. Luke’s is pleased to offer the event to the local community.
“In today’s pluralistic world it can be comforting to acknowledge our intertwined beginnings and shared traditions. I hope those in attendance with find solace in knowing that the dizzying, plurality of traditions is nothing new at all.” he notes.
The local production will feature guests Nell Snaidas and Zafer Tawil. 1995 Falconer HS graduate Alyssa Anderson, who received her undergraduate degree in Music Performance at SUNY Fredonia will also be performing with the group.
There is no charge for the event, which is open to the public. A free-will offering will be collected.
A musical performing and outreach group, the Rose Ensemble is based in St. Paul Minnesota and was founded in 1996 by Strameck. Recognized as a leader and innovator in the world-wide vocal music scene, The Rose Ensemble tours regularly, producing “imaginative and inspiring musical performances and educational programs that strive to connect each individual to compelling stories of human culture and spirituality from around the world.” For more information, visit the group’s website at RoseEnsemble.org.
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