This has been a hard week, with a lot of tragedy in the news. I don’t know about you, but my soul has felt pretty battered. Perhaps that’s what made hearing a beautiful hymn played by a gifted artist on a magical flute all the more sweeter today. My soul was touched. My hope was renewed. And, my faith and confidence in the world was restored. Continue reading
What do you get when you cross Bluegrass, Southern Gospel, and A’Cappella harmony with a handful of talented Mormon musicians living in Utah? The answer is Mountain Blue, a powerful vocal group with a unique sound, contagious melodies, and wide audience appeal! Continue reading
BYU Broadcasting Corporation will premire a long-anticipated documentary on Sunday April 4th at 12:00 PM MDT [between sessions of the LDS General Conference ] entitled:
“ONE VOICE: ON THE ROAD WITH THE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR“
A ”behind-the-scenes” film crew joined with over 600 people as part of Continue reading
Each year the Young Men and Young Women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (ages 12-18) receive a scriptural theme which will be a focal point for lessons, activities, youth camps, and firesides. The Theme for 2010 is
“Be Strong and of A Good Courage“
David Foster
When Grammy-award winning songwriter and producer David Foster collaborated with Grammy-award winner Carole Bayer Sager to write ”The Prayer“, it was a match made in heaven. Their song debuted in the 1998 animated film Quest for Camelot, and went on to win a Golden Globe for Best Original Song. Written with lyrics in both English and Italian, ”The Prayer” was first recorded as a duet between Celine Dion & Andrea Bocelli. In 2008 it was recorded by Dion & Josh Groban, and in 2009 Groban and Bocelli gave a memorable performance at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards. Over the years this song has been translated into many languages, and recorded by multiple artists. It also likely ranks as a “top hit” to be belted out in the privacy of showers and automobiles everywhere.
As our hearts are aching for the people of Haiti, and so many other sorrows throughout the world both public and private, I cannot think of a better time to offer up this musical prayer for peace, love, safety and comfort.
For Info on this recording click here / Video courtesy MoTabChoir01
“The Prayer” Lyrics
I pray you’ll be our eyes
And watch us where we go
And help us to be wise
In times when we don’t know
Let this be our prayer
As we go our way
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your Grace
To a place where we’ll be safe
La luce che tu dai
I pray we’ll find your light
Nel cuore restera
And hold it in our hearts
A ricordarci che
When stars go out each night
L’eterna stella sei
Nella mia preghiera
Let this be our prayer
Quanta fede c’e
When shadows fill our day
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we’ll be safe.
Sogniamo un mondo senza piu violenza
Un mondo di giustizia e di speranza
Ognuno dia la mano al suo vicino
Simbolo di pace e di fraternita
La forza che ci dai
We ask that life be kind
E’il desiderio che
And watch us from above
Ognuno trovi amore
We hope each soul will find
Intorno e dentro a se
Another soul to love
Let this be our prayer
Just like every child
Needs to find a place,
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we’ll be safe
E la fede che
Hai acceso in noi
Sento che ci salvera
“On The 21st Day of Christmas Countdown we contemplate the vision of Handel’s musical gift…combined with Isaiah, a timeless prophecy to uplift!”
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George Frideric Handel
This weekend Ed Reichel, music critic with The Deseret News, published an excellent article entitled “Hallelujah! Messiah is beloved holiday tradition“. It delves into the life of composer George Frideric Handel, and the story behind his famous Oratorio masterpiece: “Messiah“. (including how the tradition started for the audience to stand during the “Hallelujah” Chorus)
Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without “Messiah.” But…”Messiah” was never intended as a work for the Christmas season. Its first performance occurred in April 1742 in Dublin as a benefit to free men incarcerated in debtor’s prison…
Reichel goes on to explain that Handel was, in essense, the ‘John Williams’ of his day. He composed trendy music for theater, and countless operas. When the popularity of his music dwindled, along with his bank account, a wealthy benefactor named Charles Jennens stepped up in the nick of time. This allowed Handel the chance to re-invent himself, and revive his career ala Oratorio. In 1741 Jennens gave Handel a libretto he had written. It encompassed the entire scope of Jesus Christ; using scriptures from the Old and New Testament. Handel’s reaction was nothing short of electric! He shut himself into a room in his home for 3 weeks, writing the musical score.
During that time, he never left his house and barely came out of his room. A servant who brought him his meals said, “He was praying, or he was weeping, or he was staring into eternity.”
Isaiah records his visions
I believe Handel and Isaiah share a common bond. Each bore their witness of Jesus Christ. Each received divine guidance and vision. Once their inspiration was written down, it would change the world. There is an amazing synergy of creative power that these two great men were able to accomplish together, although centuries apart.
There can be no doubt that Handel was inspired when he wrote the music for “Messiah.” He admitted as much when he said about the “Hallelujah Chorus,” which he had just completed, “I did think I did see all Heaven before me and the great God Himself.”
During that three week period of intense creative communion, a great prophet, and a great composer channeled their devotion – and the result is a timeless work of harmonic scripture. A musical prophecy, if you will, to guide our weary souls and promote heavenly peace, eternally.
by Liz Lemon Swindle
“Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign, Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
“The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light:…
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 7:14, 9: 2, 6-7,
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So, why does the audience stand during the “Hallelujah” Chorus?
According to a contemporary account, King George II was present at the first performance of “Messiah” in London, and during the “Hallelujah Chorus” at the words “for the Lord God omnipotent,” the king was so touched by what he was hearing that he stood up. Seeing their majesty on his feet, the audience swiftly followed suit. That’s where the tradition to stand for this chorus originated.
On the 16th Day it isn’t always enough … to smile and grin and try to be tough… A post on coping with Grief and Loss at Christmas time.
For many days I have been posting regular messages of joy, glory, praise and holiday cheer as we ‘countdown to Christmas’. I plan to continue! Today, my message of hope and praise is just a little different from the norm. I wish to acknowledge the suffering that often accompanies this time of year when empty chairs and broken hearts seem especially out of place.
Suffering from the loss of a loved one at any time of the year is difficult, yet during the holidays or on other special occasions, the grieving experience has a more intense sense of loss. The world is moving forward, celebrating life and all its blessings, yet for those who grieve, a dark shadow pervades the holiday.
If you’re mourning a loss this Christmas, the holiday glam and seasonal lights can make you feel terrible … You’re not alone if you’re dealing with death – Grieving at Christmas
Every person’s grief becomes a very different and personal journey. There is no “one size fits all” guide to getting through the holidays, or to healing. Sadly, there is no magic wand that can make ‘everything ok’. 
According to Kay Talbot, PhD. one should expect “sudden Grief Attacks”, exhaustion, disruption, emotional “echos”, “if only’s”, “Should have’s”, anger, fear, and deep, soul searching questions. These are just a few of the many faces and stages of grief. Several books have been devoted just to getting through the holidays after a death.
However, there is an assurance that life will get better. Of course, it will never be the same as before. But, gradually we can each feel stronger and more in charge of our life.
“Death leaves a heartache difficult to heal ~~ Love leaves sweet memories no one can steal”
Epitaph on a tombstone in Ireland, dated 1889
Cori Connors
Two years ago I had the priviledge of attending a Christmas concert being given by an LDS folk singer named Cori Connors. I was enchanted with her warm personality, her generous spirit, and her deeply moving lyrics. Cori’s songs bubble with life. They include the joyful moments, but she is not afriad to explore the many not-so-happy challenges of mortality. I love Cori’s songs. They’re real. They’re honest. And, they’re intimite. One of these songs, entitled “You Would Have Loved This” was written at Christmas, following the death of Cori’s mother-in-law. That particular song has been running through my mind so much lately that I decided it really wanted to be a MoSop Movie, and that this topic really needed be posted!
It is my hope that Cori’s words, and music can help heal something inside each of us.
Cori Connors
Cori Connors:
Not long ago, when my family had gathered together at my mom’s house, we set up the old brown card table in the middle of the living room. Out from the cupboards and bookcases came boxes and albums full of old family photos. Those photos called up memories for all of us, some painful, but mostly sweet. They were a tangible representation of all that brought us to where we are today.
Richard Exley said…”Experience again the full range of emotion memories invoke. Let them play a nostalgic melody on the strings of your heart. Remember the warmth of a special friendship, the comfort of kindness, the closeness of family. Think about the Christ Child in Bethlehem’s manger and the nearness of God. Blink back the tears, if need be, and swallow past the fist sized lump in your throat, but don’t quench the memories. They are a part of your history, part of the web of experience which God has woven into the tapestry of your personhood.”I have counted the years by Christmases, written on a series of envelopes and papers, and set to music in the wee silent hours at home. These songs are the pages of my scrapbook. My love and thanks to family and friends who embedded themselves in my heart.
The following MoSop Movie was created with all those in mind who have some hurt to endure, tenderness of soul, or pain of heart. It is my wish that you will find joy in your memories, and much sweetness amidst the sorrow. I’m sorry I do not have the right words to say to take your particular pain away. But, I offer up a song, and a prayer, and my love.
Consider this a Christmas hug from Cori, and I.
Enlarge in HQ for Best Effect!
Learn more about Cori Connors & purchase her CD’s at www.CoriConnors.com. Or, follow her family adventures at her BLOGwww.CoriConnors.Blogspot.com
Shawna Belt Edwards
A new song has been released just in time for Christmas by LDS / Mormon musician Shawna [Belt] Edwards** which is taking the world by storm. It asks the timeless question: “Do YOU have room for the Savior?”
Within 24 hours, Edwards music video on YouTube started “going viral”, and since she has offered the MP3 and the sheet music as a free downloadable file - it is sure to be sweeping YouTube, websites, Facebook and Blogs by storm over the next few days. Of course, I can’t help joining in the excitement, too! The song, and message is beautiful. For her video, Edwards’ original music was arranged by Daniel Blomberg, and performed by LDS singer/songwriter April Meservy.
“There was no room for Him in the inn. Do you have room for Him in your life?”
December 14, 2009 Interview Update
MoSop received a personal email from Shawna Belt Edwards who graciously agreed to share additional personal information, and some background on the song:
Edwards Family
SBE: I originally wrote this song as a Christmas gift for my family, and I sang it to them on Christmas Eve. It was inspired by President Monson’s 1990 Ensign article entitled The Search for Jesus. For the next 4 or 5 years, my dad would occasionally ask me, “Have you done anything with that song?” But other than a few hundred print copies I placed in a local music store, the answer was, “Not yet.”
My dad died suddenly and unexpectedly about two years ago. He was my first, and biggest fan. In my youth, I sat at the piano and practiced for hours and hours, and my dad would sit in a wing back chair in the corner and listen. Lots of people listened to me perform, but he was the only one who listened to me practice. That meant more to me than anything he could have ever given me.
I have kept thinking that the best way I could honor him would be to do something with the song. So I put it with the video and shared it a month ago at our Stake Music Night. I later posted it on YouTube and sent the link to 5 people. (3 of my kids live out of town, and I figured it would be an easy way for them to see it.) They shared it with a few people, and the rest is history.
I think it’s an incredible example of the power of the Internet for GOOD. 3 1/2 weeks ago, the song was still tucked away in my music file drawer. But now, it will be sung around the world this Christmas in Sacrament Meetings, firesides, Christmas Eve worship services, outdoor pageants, Evangelical gatherings, small town churches, interfaith celebrations, seminary classes, neighborhood parties, and (my favorite) Family Home Evenings.
MoSop thanks Sister Edwards for sharing her story, and music with us!
Click To Listen: Do You Have Room? Shawna Belt Edwards
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**SEARCH WARNING! There is a graphic pornography website headlining on search engines with the same name as this LDS composer. MoSop and Sister Edwards warn readers: Please DO NOT click on those misleading links!
“On The 6th Day of Christmas, MoSop shares a music treat”…
NEW WORDS sung by Brian Stokes Mitchell (so sweet!)
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The first time I heard broadway star Brian ‘Stokes’ Mitchell perform this song, my soul was deeply touched. In fact, I was moved to tears. Not only was I overcome by Stokes incredible, passionate performance, but also by the message of the piece. This song reminds us that when we see the world through the eyes of a child, life is a joyous miracle!
I have created this particular musical gift for two reasons.
#1. It stands as an obvious tribute to Stokes, whom I deeply admire as not only a stunningly gifted performer, but a human being who manages to be genuine, and has strong family values. No one who visits my site should be deprived of discovering the “magic of Stokes”!!
#2. My primary reason for sharing this video is to give a holiday gift of hope to my readers, and to the world. I personally feel this song captures the very essence of Christmas. We have a Child, a Father, the Spirit of Wonder, and the Wonders of Creation – all wrapped up together in a tidy 4 minute musical package to ponder and enjoy!
So, despite the chaos of the impending holidays, and the many things that may be weighing heavy on your heart this season, it is my prayer that God will Bless you to feel the true Peace and Joy that can only come from A Child!
NEW WORDS (Lyrics and Music by Maury Yeston)
Look up there, high above us,
In a sky of blackest silk.
See how round, like a cookie
See how white as white as milk.
Call it, “the moon” my son,
Say “MOON”.
Sounds like your spoon, my son,
Can you say it?
New word today!
Say “MOON”
Near the moon brightly turning,
See those shining sparks of light?
Each one new, each one burning
Through the darkness of the night.
We call them “stars”, my son,
Say “STARS”!
That one is Mars, my son.
Can you say it?
New word today!
Say “Stars”.
As they blink all around us,
Playing starry-eyed games,
Who would think it astounds us
Simply naming their names?
Turn your eyes from the skies now.
Turn around and look at me.
There’s a light in my eyes now,
And a word for what you see.
We call it “Love”, my son.
Say “LOVE”.
So, hard to say, my son.
It get’s harder.
New words today, we’ll learn to say.
Learn “moon”, learn “stars”, learn “love”.
La la la la …
Learn “Moon”, learn “stars”, learn “happy”
Learn “peace”, learn “love”, learn “puppy”
Learn “friend”, learn “toy”, learn “sharing”
Learn “hope”, learn “joy”, learn “caring”,
Learn “Life is there for living”
And “Love is there for giving”
Learn merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily
Live, and Laugh, and Dream.
Cardall Family
Mormon musician Paul Cardall was born in 1973 with a severe congenital heart defect. He has undergone countless surgeries, and is currently wait-listed for a heart transplant. This is his last hope. He dreams of living long enough to raise his little girl Eden alongside his beautiful wife Lynette.
Ironically, Paul possesses an exceptional art for healing others. Despite his failing health, he remains an unfailing inspiration and source of hope. He uses his musical gifts to comfort, bless and heal the world one person at a time. Paul doesn’t get to the piano much these days, but when he does, the music comes straight from his broken heart.
This week, I was extremely touched by his new composition entitled “Gracie’s Theme“. Paul shared his thoughts on this piece:
“Over the years I have been deeply affected by other sick children. One particular child was Gracie, a baby who passed after a failed heart transplant. It’s heartbreaking to watch parents fight to keep their children alive only to see them slowly slip back into Gods loving arms. However, it is inspiring to witness children whove been fortunate to continue their journey in this life. I am one of those. Regardless of the outcome it seems these experiences teach the value of life and how fragile it truly is. We live for a short while, but in the end we all go home to that God who gave us life.”
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For more music videos by Paul, visit the Cardall YouTube Channel. You may also download Cardall music selections, and help support his fight for life at Paul’s “Living For Eden” Blog.
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UPDATE DEC. 2009
Paul Cardall received his heart transplant, and is doing fabulous! What an inspiration and miracle he is. A benefit concert is planned for Feb. 15th, 2009. See video!:
