One reason this music is so conducive to quiet reflection is the familiarity of the melodies. For You Are Near, Dan has taken some of his most gentle, contemplative songs for worship and distilled them into four instrumental suites, each of which is a carefully arranged, smoothly flowing medley of three songs. These are melodies we all know, drawn from songs that form part of the musical consciousness of American Catholics, including "Here I Am, Lord," "Only This I Want" and others.
Each suite employs a unique combination of instruments. One uses primarily woodwinds, another strings, and one is arranged for harp, guitar, piano, oboe, clarinet and solo violin. The CD booklet includes a passage of Scripture related to the theme of each suite to guide and inspire reflection while listening to the music.
Designed for anyone striving to renew their prayer life, You Are Near is an excellent musical resource for pastors, parish administrators, prayer group leaders, teachers and retreat directors. Suitable for listening at home, while driving, working or on retreat, this is music that can help us re-center our minds and hearts on the One who is always near, the One who loves us beyond imagination.
Contents
Suite Four: I Am with You Always Suite One: Come, Follow Me |
Suite Three: Come to Me Suite Two: I Make All Things New |