Norma Gentile - Songs of the Spirit Review

Overall 5.00 of 5 (by 1 user)

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Saxguy
Skokie, IL

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Profoundly peaceful and enjoyable music

a fan of good music, a fan of chant, a fan of peaceful music

Pros

profoundly peaceful, outstanding musicianship

FEB

2008

Norma Gentile is an incredible vocalist, who has made a career out of exploring the relationship between healing and music.

I first became aware of her during a workshop several years ago. Her material on music and intention was literally life-changing. Since then, I have bought her CDs and heard her in concert, as well as corresponding with her on occasion.

Norma's chosen genre is in performing the chants of a Medieval mystic, Hildegard of Bingen, who lived during the 12th century. She has incredible vocal range, power and subtlety.

This CD was recorded live in several settings, primarily churches, and was released in 2007. The time is nearly an hour.

The 20 pieces consist primarily of Norma's compositions, performed in the style of Hildegard of Bingen, plus some compositions by Hildegard. Norma's solo voice is supplemented on some tracks by background instruments inclluding Tibetan bowls, Indian Schruti box, guitar tuned as an Indian Tambura and Tibetan flutes. Those additional instruments really add nice ambiance to the pieces.

I am currently recovering from hernia repair surgery and I am spending time listening to peaceful music to help with the healing process and for comfort. I listened to this CD in its entirety before retiring a few days ago. During the hour, I experienced a welcome pervasive feeling of peace and a small, but noticeable reduction in pain. I slept peacefully that night.

This is an outstanding CD.

It is available from Norma's web site, www.healingchants.com, and from www.cdbaby.com