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The poetry of Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941) is known for its imaginative, uplifting qualities -- always reaching skyward. Songs of Heaven and Sky are inspired by these Tagore traits.
"Heaven of Freedom" speaks of noble aspirations for society: into that Heaven of Freedom, my Father, let my country awake! This is a strong, powerful song.
"This is My Prayer" seeks to give up the self to the Lord to rise high above daily trifles. Give me the strength to surrender my strength to thy will with love. This surrender leads to a peaceful acceptance.
"Thou Art the Sky" is a transcendent poem. There is little grounded here, as voice and piano remain mostly in the upper range. There, where spreads the infinite sky for the soul to take her flight in, reigns the stainless white radiance. And this is the poet's vision of Heaven.
Notes by the composer