It was a time of praise and deep gratitude. Francis Xavier College Church Choir, under the insightful direction of Ray Sherrock, along with alumni, and friends of the Jesuits, sang 24 original compositions, along with two encores.Īs we sang, the memories triggered by certain songs brought to mind a lifetime of being loved by a God beyond all names. Often I was moved to tears.Īs our musicians led us through each song, there were some 'senior moments' these were either acknowledged or teased out, as only guys who know and love one another can do. It was a concert praising God in the heart of our beautiful and broken city. Most songs were preceded by some words of banter among the musicians - so at home with one another - and then a brief background of how the composer was inspired or cajoled to write the song as he did.Īs the hushed silence welcomed their words of camaraderie and inspiration, a familiar air of 'being home' filled the elegant space. Their arrival on stage attired in 'regular' clothes was a hint that this elegant space was soon to alternate between cathedral and Irish pub, where awe inspiring music, sung by the composers, was accompanied by a dedicated audience and choir who already knew the songs and prayed them. Roc O'Connor and Dan Schutte appeared on stage, there was enthusiastic appreciation by all who had gathered to hear some of their favorite hymns.

This final concert featured the five original musicians who had composed most of the songs from the St. People bought some 2,600 tickets the concert was a sold-out event.

Dan schutte albums