Artistic Statement:
I’m very grateful indeed to have been approached by Belmont University for a proposed collaboration between myself, the Cathedral Church of St John the Divine NYC, and Belmont. For several years, I have had in mind a large-scale commission that will uniquely engage and excite a multitude of diverse and broad audiences. A critical priority will be ensuring the project resonates with today’s younger audiences.This composition will be created to align with and support the ideals and mission of Belmont University’s newly-established Creative Arts Collective for Christian Life and Faith.
I am particularly intrigued to consider the compositional possibilities of bringing classical techniques and the sound world of country music together (with perhaps a nod to other forms of musical expression such as jazz, gospel, musical theatre). In sharing the same artistic paradigm, each style could compliment yet bounce off and enhance the other. Above all I would plan to build a work of melodic and harmonic generosity, faithful to and always amplifying the text with a sound palette that is accessible without being oversimplified.
It will be a great privilege to expand my collaboration with Kent Tritle, Director of Cathedral Music and Organist at St John the Divine, in both developing and executing this exciting project. Kent is one of America's leading choral directors, described by The NY Times
as “the brightest star in New York’s choral music world.” Kent and I began collaborating in 2013 when we performed Mahler 2 at the Cathedral. Kent’s deep Christ-centred faith grounds everything he does, and his artistry and creativity inspire singers and audiences in NYC and well beyond. Kent has touched countless numbers of people from many walks of life with his brilliant musicality and overarching belief that music has the power to transform lives. Kent’s musical ministry is embedded in the belief that music is the pathway to the divine.
At a time when more than ever, our world needs art and music that will inspire hope, renewal, and belief in the power of the Christian message, I am excited and deeply honoured to partner with Belmont University. It is my profound hope that our project will powerfully reflect the “beauty, complexity and depth of Christian life and faith,” as set forth by the Creative Arts Collective, and thereby inspire awe and wonder in audiences from every walk of life, whatever their calling, to help make the world a better place.
Learn More: https://www.david-briggs.org/