Friday Noon

Strolling along York Avenue, I noticed a cluster of buildings that seemed to fit in with the hospitals close by but had posters which indicated a wealth of what my daughter at age four called, "Distinguished Avocados." Rockefeller University overlooks the East River and has a history in science I did not know. It is a biomedical center with 73 laboratories devoted to basic and clinical research. 23 of its scientists have won a Nobel prize. However, the real surprise for me was the small recital hall with free recitals on Fridays at noon. Last Friday there was a group singing and playing my favorite kind of music (well, tied with my other all-time favorites). TENET, according to the New York Times is, "Sensational." SPIRITUS COLLECTIVE  "unites breath, spirit and inspiration to produce meaningful sacred music utilizing wind instruments, specifically period brass instruments (natural trumpet, cornett and sackbut). Combined with period strings and voices spiritus is a versatile ensemble, capable of recreating the vast and fascinating 17th century repertoire." Behind the performers, placed in a wide arc, were forty votive candles which were the perfect touch. It was so easy to imagine a side, or Lady chapel, in a country far away where the music filled the space for an hour or so of enchantment. I did not know the pieces but the words such as, "Sanctorum" sent me right back to my childhood when morning classes would be suspended to go pray and sing along the stone work corridors of the convent school. How lovely to feel the music shut out the world beyond the walls. A tiny glimpse of Heaven. The Friday Noon Recitals are gems, hidden just past the front garden. Are you as fond as I of beautiful things not seen from outside? A geode. A cavern. A pocketful of silver coins. 

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...may the blessings of delightful surprises be yours...