Easter Sunday
March 31, 2013 07:22
To say that this has been a “different kind” of Easter would be an understatement. I’ve never had one quite like it. I won’t go into a lot of detail as none of that is important. What is important is that this is a day where Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord. No matter where you are in the world, as a Christian, this is THE most important day of the year and I hope this has been a fulfilling, joyous, and blessed day for you all.
I have spent Easter in so many different locales over the years. I have fond memories of Easters spent in Munich, Paris, and Toronto. But this year, being in Tokyo is a totally different kind of experience. I was able to get to Mass at a local Catholic Church last night in order to celebrate the Easter Vigil. It is always amazing to me that, even with such vastly different cultures, the liturgy is basically the same as anywhere else. That is comforting and wonderful to me.
But this is a country that does not have nearly as much Christian influence as other places where I’ve sung. Today was a “work day” for me with several hours being spent in the rehearsal hall here in Tokyo as we prepare “Die Meistersinger” for the upcoming concerts. It was great to be with colleagues and to sing this glorious music. However, just once I would have loved to have heard the great hymn, “Jesus Christ is Risen Today” being sung by the wonderful singers in the room. I would have loved to have heard the orchestra breaking into the “Hallelujah Chorus”. But, even if the expression wasn’t so well heard in the music that surrounded me today, it was felt in my heart. He is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!
I will have much more to say later this week about “Die Meistersinger” and what this piece means to me. I have quite a history with this opera and some strong personal feelings about what it means to finally bring Hans Sachs to my repertoire. And I have a lot I want to say about the Wichita State University Shockers. Check back mid-week. But, until then, have a blessed and very Happy Easter week!
I have spent Easter in so many different locales over the years. I have fond memories of Easters spent in Munich, Paris, and Toronto. But this year, being in Tokyo is a totally different kind of experience. I was able to get to Mass at a local Catholic Church last night in order to celebrate the Easter Vigil. It is always amazing to me that, even with such vastly different cultures, the liturgy is basically the same as anywhere else. That is comforting and wonderful to me.
But this is a country that does not have nearly as much Christian influence as other places where I’ve sung. Today was a “work day” for me with several hours being spent in the rehearsal hall here in Tokyo as we prepare “Die Meistersinger” for the upcoming concerts. It was great to be with colleagues and to sing this glorious music. However, just once I would have loved to have heard the great hymn, “Jesus Christ is Risen Today” being sung by the wonderful singers in the room. I would have loved to have heard the orchestra breaking into the “Hallelujah Chorus”. But, even if the expression wasn’t so well heard in the music that surrounded me today, it was felt in my heart. He is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!
I will have much more to say later this week about “Die Meistersinger” and what this piece means to me. I have quite a history with this opera and some strong personal feelings about what it means to finally bring Hans Sachs to my repertoire. And I have a lot I want to say about the Wichita State University Shockers. Check back mid-week. But, until then, have a blessed and very Happy Easter week!