Song - Language of the Soul - Standards - Muscial Or devotional? Part 03

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Devotion is the stamp which posts our loving thoughts

to God. A mother cares more for the scrawl of her

children than for the beautiful script of a stranger.

God listens to our hearts more then to our words.

 

Is is not the perfection of musical talent alone which

pleases the Lord. Devotion and sincerity should alo be

expressed. it is good to encourage wholehearted

participation and enthusiasm. Where is the benefit if

we are timid and do not sing out?

 

" Some do not sing loud at bhajans. When a man has

fallen into a well and is unable to get out, does he

mutter to himself? Clap your hands with vigor so that

the birds of evil and passion infesting your minds

shall fly away " Baba

 

It is also desirable, however, that tunes be sung in a

harmonious and pleasing manner. Muscial training or

the learning of scales is not required. What is

required is that our singing be natural reflection of

our yearning for God. When we sing with devotion, our

joy naturally sweetens the melody.

 

" Bhajan must be a felt experience. Do not sing with

one eye on the effect the song makes on the listeners

and the other on the effect it makes on God. Let your

heart pant for God; then raga and tala will

automatically be pleasant and correct " Baba

 

At a public meeting, it may be necessary for some

individual to express their enthusiasm silently.

Praises sung in a discordant manner do little to

elevate our spirits. Standards must be met for the

musical quality of a public session.

 

" Let those with a good voice and musical talent lead.

The keertan (song) must be pleasant; it should not jar

on the ear. If your voice is grating or out of tune,

do not disturb the melody, but repeat the Mamavali

(the name of the Lord in song)in your mind " Baba

 

Another difficulty may arise when working with the

most musically talented members. These members may

wish to widen the scope of compositions to be sung. In

seeking new songs and some variety, they may select

songs which are too difficult for other members to

follow. There may even be a tendency for some leaders

to compete in musical virtuosity. They may display

their egos more then devotion, an occurrence directly

contrary to the purpose of the discipline

 

" I do not like bhajan that promotes rivalry or envy or

egoism or that emanates from intolerance " Baba

 

Variey in the program is desirable. Now songs help to

build our interest and enthusiasm. One effective way

to do this is to schedule regular learning sessions.

In these sessions, leaders and members can improve

their skills and learn new songs. It may be necessary

to require leaders to attend these sessions so they

can determine if they are prepared to sing the new

composition.

 

Continue...Song - Language of the Soul - Take up the

Practice Part 04

 

 

 

 

 

 

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