By , Special to JTNews
“Voices of Reason,” a concert of Christian, Jewish and Islamic music based on the three religions’ common teachings of peace and justice, will be presented by the Seattle Peace Chorus (SPC), Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Seattle Unity Church, 8th Ave. E. at John in Seattle.
“In response to mounting tensions in the Middle East, we began planning this concert months before the tragic events of Sept. 11,” says SPC board president Markos Weiss. “Now, of course, all of us feel a deeper commitment to this concert and its message,” he added.
Centerpiece of the concert will be selections from “Mass of the Holy Spirit,” by contemporary composer Joseph Zamberlin. The Peace Chorus will be joined by three gospel choirs — Gospel Truth from Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Shades of Praise from St. Therese Catholic Church, and Urban Rhythms — as well as the composer at the piano and an ensemble of instrumentalists.
Also on the program, in addition to the mass and a variety of choral music from Jewish and Christian traditions sung by the Peace Chorus, will be instrumental and vocal music by the Jewish group Shalom Ensemble, and Islamic chants performed and explained by members of the Muslim community.
Founded in 1983 in response to the growing threat of nuclear war, the Seattle Peace Chorus takes as its mission “to communicate through music the desire for a just and peaceful world, to celebrate life in all its diversity, and to inspire commitment to harmonious relationships.” According to SPC literature, “Our performances are designed to weave stronger, more respectful connections between local communities, among diverse cultures, and across international boundaries.” The chorus has toured and performed in Cuba, Chile and the former Soviet Union. For more information about the chorus, visit the SPC Web site at www.word-ware.com/spc.
Tickets to the Nov. 17 concert are $12 in advance, $15 at the door, $10 students with student ID, seniors, and disabled. Children 6 and under are admitted free. Tickets may be ordered at 206-264-5532.