Night Prayer

Night Prayer, a service of ancient plainsong chant, mystical silence, and meditation is held on the first Sunday of every month at 8:30 PM at the Episcopal Parish of the Messiah.  Descending from the Jewish tradition of singing the psalms on a regular basis, this service of Night Prayer is closely linked to the ancient monastic service of Compline, one of the four Daily Offices of the Anglican church.  Even though Night Prayer takes place in a church, anyone of any faith may take part.  One need not be an Episcopalian, of the Christian faith, or any belief system.  Those attending may join in singing parts of the service, use the space for solace and contemplation, or simply listen to the music.  Absolutely everyone is welcome. 

April 6  Night Prayer at 8:30 PM

Schola Nocturna, the small ensemble of men and women under the direction of Amelia LeClair, will sing a service of compline unlike any they have performed before.  Included in the program will be anthems and chants such as the “Pater Noster” by Igor Stravinsky and the five-part “Nunc Dimittus” by William Byrd.  Throughout the service, Newton saxophonist, Barry Anechiarico will improvise on the harmony and melodies between sections.  

April 19  Cappella Clausura at 8:00 PM

Cappella Clausura with Amphion's Lyre:

The Complete Vespers of Cozzolani

Join Cappella Clausura for an innovative performance of Suor Chiara Cozzolani's magnificent full VESPERS of 1650 with baroque orchestra and two choirs will be sung by Cappella Clausura’s full compliment of 12 women's voices. This grand sacred work, written for eight soloists and basso continuo is comparable to the Monteverdi Vespers of 1610. It will be performed Italian style, that is, with instrumental sonatas da chiesa between Cozzolani's psalm settings. The full ensemble of AMPHION'S LYRE including two violins, two gambas, theorbo and continuo organ are perhaps best known for their frequent SoHIP appearances will be joined by guest theorboist, Catherine Liddell. 

Tickets are available on-line or at the door for $20. / $12 for students and seniors. 

July 5  Night Prayer

There is no Night Prayer program during July. Please return to this website next month for details concerning future programs.

last updated July 4, 2008