SKU: A0.1032547

Peaceful and delightful

a ride through countryside;

rolling fields,

roaming animals,

beautiful like a flower –

resting under wispy clouds.

Not even a storm

disrupts the enchantment

of the peaceful countryside.

SKU: HX.1194256

SKU: A0.719511

September 11, 2001 has had a profound affect on many people, not the least of which is the composer of this work. Written the month following the tragic events of 9/11, it is a reflection of the chaotic times in which we live. Dona Nobis Pacem (Grant Us Peace) is a prayer for peace to the loving God who is the God (or Allah, or Yahweh) of all people, that out of our current discord peace and harmony may come to all humanity. The work is in three sections (ABA) with a coda. The only text in the first three sections is a wailing Oh intoned by the choir. Throughout these sections the melody wanders in search of a harmonious resting point. In the B section the choir and strings part ways and resonate increased dissonance. The second A section exactly duplicates the first. The work concludes in the coda with the phrase Dona nobis pacem and an ever-increasing sense of harmonious repose. The listener may hear occasional reflections of Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings or Pavane for a Dead Princess by Maurice Ravel. Dona Nobis Pacem was premiered in May 2003 by the combined choirs of the John Duss Music Conservatory, Duluth MN, and Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Superior WI, under the direction of the composer. It is purely coincidental that there are 191 measures in the work......the numbers in the date of 9/11.