Medieval monks regarded repose as a "deep and holy rest"-hence the name of The Chalice of Repose Project, a program which provides care for the dying by using music to ease the transition from life. Therese Schroeder-Sheker is a musician and scholar of medieval music who has developed modern adaptations of early monastic practices which sought to provide a blessed or peaceful death. Musician/clinician pairs assess each patient's physical condition and synchronize the music with each person's physiology. Melody, harmony and rhythm all correspond to a different body function, and are applied appropriately. This is not a bedside concert, but a therapeutic/spiritual means of helping the body to unbind itself from life. Historical and explanatory materials are neatly interwoven with musical demonstrations and images which help viewers through difficult concepts. The program concludes with a discussion of the contemplative skills necessary to perform this work and the place of suffering and joy in the fullness of life. An extraordinary exploration of a difficult subject. Highly, highly recommended for anyone concerned with issues surrounding death. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)
Chalice of Repose
(1997) 44 min. $29.95 (booklet included). Sounds True. PPR. Color cover. ISBN: 1-56455-491-0. Vol. 12, Issue 5
Chalice of Repose
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