Program Notes for Selections from Abráce's Repertoire:
Epouro—Abráce sings in Coptic, the last language of the Pharaohs, asking the King of Peace to help us live in harmony
Cuando el Rey Nimrod—A 600-year-old Ladino song from the time of La Convivencia, when Catholics, Jews and Muslims lived together peacefully in Spain.
Jewish-Arab Peace Song— “We are a bridge and a ladder for all those who dream. We are here for all. We brought peace our-selves.” Written by Shlomo Gronich and originally performed by: Palestinians - Sahmir Shukri, Nivine Jaabri, Elias Julianos, Lubna Salame and Jewish-Israelis - Leah Shabat, Shlomo Gronich, Zehavah Ben, Eli Luzon.
Yemaya Medley—Combines two vignettes composed by Samia Panni & Joyce Yarrow with three Lucumí (archaic Yoruba) praise songs for the deity Yemaya, the universal mother, calling on her restorative powers.
Abrace el Reino del Cielo—composed in the 16th century by Tomás Pascual, a Guatemalan Indian converted to Catholicism, who was a “maestro de capilla.” This song combines African syn-copated rhythms and Catholic Gregorian chanting with the spirit of Pascual's Mayan culture.
The Storm is Passing Over— Written by Charles Albert Tindley, credited with being the “father of gospel music,” this song speaks to overcoming obstacles with courage and faith.
Kaval Sviri—A young Bulgarian girl falls in “love at first sight” with a flute (kaval) playing shepherd.
Pata Pata—This South African “forbidden dance” is dedicated to the late Miriam Makeba, whose passionate commitment to music and human rights continues to light the way.
Zanzibar—Perhaps one of the earliest pluralistic societies, it is an island in the Indian Ocean with a long trading history within the Arab world. Edu Lobo’s composition with this title, is in the Brazil-ian rhythm called “baião” that provides the perfect accompaniment for the Middle Eastern and Afro Brazilian dancers with whom Abráce collaborates.
