As the year drew to a close, I found myself immersed in reflections on my roots—those European chapels and cathedrals that once shaped my life profoundly. They were more than places of worship; they were sanctuaries of beauty, contemplation, and connection, woven deeply into the fabric of my being. Yet, here in Sedona, Arizona, I stumbled upon a new sanctuary that resonates with unexpected solace and beauty: the Gretchen Warren Chapel at Verde Valley School.
Vespers Performance at Gretchen Warren Chapel
On December 19, during Vespers at Verde Valley School, I had the privilege of singing Giulio Caccini’s Ave Maria and César Franck’s Panis Angelicus.
These songs, which I performed all over the world, I consider signature pieces. They were released on my album Musica Sacra in piano/voice arrangements. More recently they were released as singles with my own arrangements, in which I wove tradition with contemporary expression.
Nestled amidst Sedona’s red rocks, this chapel stands as a testament to student creativity and dedication. Constructed by students, it was designed not just for worship but as a space open to all, regardless of faith.
The first time I entered this chapel, just a stone’s throw from my home, I felt the intimacy of the space and the community spirit it embodies. Or maybe it’s simply the unique energy that Sedona exudes.
As this year came to a close, I am grateful for finding this gem in my own backyard. Here’s to the tranquil spaces that nourish our spirits, to the moments that reveal the profound beauty of stillness, and to the unexpected discoveries that make our hearts sing.