Last week I was busy with the Phoenix Symphony Chorus again. We did a "World Premiere" of a piece called "Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio." It was written by a native Arizonan, with the libretto by English Professor and Navajo, Laura Tohe. We sang parts of it in Navajo. It tells the story of a young Navajo man who serves in the Iraq war, and his internal struggle as he returns home. He struggles as he searches for the Navajo way of life, living with the demons of war. It is getting national attention, and a live recording CD will be made from the concerts (and our late night "patch session") to come out this summer.
There was an amazing baritone soloist, Scott Hendricks, a full symphony with full chorus, as well as photography of Navajo lands illustrating the music.
Here's the review from the Arizona Republic: [and for some reason, this link isn't working...]
The chorus acts as the Navajo ancients all working together to save this one soul. It was a really amazing work to be a part of. It wasn't great timing that I was so sick that week, but I was still able to go and experience the music, even if my voice wasn't contributing like it usually does!
On the Saturday night concert, the Dibbles, Ward and Adam all came to hear it, and it was a fun night.
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