by Ellena on February 21, 2016
Today during communion I sang the spiritual “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen,” arranged by composer Raymond K. Liebau. Here’s a truncated personal story about this superb arrangement: During my DMA dissertation research, I corresponded with a generous composer. He gave me the best arrangement of this spiritual I’ve ever encountered. I’ve been glad to share […]
by Ellena on December 25, 2015
If you’re a musician, then the best thing about Christmas is the fantastic music! Usually, after singing from 12:00 – 2 p.m. and 6:00- 12:00 midnight on Christmas Eve, (yes that’s a total of approximately 8 hours), I go to a pancake breakfast & celebration from 12:30 – 3:30 a.m. This year, the pancake breakfast […]
by Ellena on December 16, 2015
For the third year in a row, I’ve been asked to be the musician at the Blue Christmas service that All Saints Episcopal Church in Atlanta offers as an alternative to the festive Nativity of Our Lord on Christmas Eve. Blue Christmas is an intimate service that both honors the presence of sadness and darkness in […]
by Ellena on May 25, 2015
May we celebrate the lives of our service men and women and give thanks for those who have gone before us this Memorial Day 2015. Please enjoy this short “Requiem” I wrote and recorded today.
by Ellena on December 17, 2014
This evening, we offered a service of darkness and light through scripture, prayer, and song. As the musician, I sang “I wonder as I wander,” “Silent Night,” and “Away in a Manger.” I also brought my violin and to offer reflection music and accompany the hymns. It is a delight to lead worship with the Reverend […]