Taizé & Rounds

Within various religions there has been a small minority—contemplatives and mystics—who have compassion for all regardless of creed and other superficial differences, for whom violence and coercion are unthinkable, and for whom the unity of Humanity is a core belief. (And frequently persecuted by members of their own religion.)

The Taizé ("tay-ZAY") community in Taizé, France would be one such group. Their services consist of mantra-like music with a contemporary approach, silent meditation, and prayer. No sermons, no passing the plate, and there is no 'membership' or dogmas. Just come.

Personally, I think Taizé-style music may well be the most interesting innovation in contemplative/meditative music since the Gregorian Chant.

Below are my own pieces in the style of Taizé, and rounds (also very appropriate for Taizé style services). The pieces are all for small chorus and optional vocal & instrumental solists—the mp3s are instrumental 'MIDI mockups' so you can hear how they sound. (Good enough for singers to rehearse at home and for folks to hear roughly how they sound—but not polished performances.)

BTW: On all the music pdf's on this page you will find this notice next to the copyright: "Permission is granted to reproduce and adapt this piece for non-commercial uses such as public worship."

A few of my personal favorites would be: