Gardens Presbyterian Church to Host ‘Songs of the Heart’

By David Salazar

Gardens Presbyterian Church will present “Songs of the Heart” on May 3, 2025.

The showcase includes the world premiere of “Sabachthani, a new cantata by Daniel Gowans set to text of Pasalm 22.

“Those familiar with historical cantatas will recognize echoes of tradition in this modern cantata’s stylistic qualities. Though adjusted slightly in structure to that of many earlier works in this nature and with a fresh perspective on the form, it retains a sense of familiarity. From the first chime-like notes to the final hymn of agony, its essence remains deeply rooted in the cantata tradition,” Gowans said in an official press release.

Also on the program are excerpts from the opera “3:16.” The opera explores the real-life experiences of a U.S. Army chaplain with the story centering on Mary Raven, who runs away from a harsh father and becomes Lieutenant Mary James. It features music by Theodore Christman, Gary Vincent Koda, Vita Koreneva, Akihiro Masuda, Stéphane Tesan, and Jeff Shankley.

Performers include soprano Nat Simone, mezzo-soprano Madison Marie McIntosh, and pianist Yinyu Li.

The showcase is set to start at 7 p.m.

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