Dave Brubeck's "To Hope! A Celebration" is a captivating live album that masterfully blends the sacred and the secular, offering a unique fusion of jazz and Catholic liturgical music. Recorded on June 12, 1995, at the majestic Washington National Cathedral, this album captures the essence of a live performance of the Roman Catholic Mass, reimagined through the lens of cool jazz.
The album features Dave Brubeck's signature style, characterized by intricate rhythms and harmonies, accompanied by the talented members of his quartet. With tracks like "Processional," "Alleluia," and "Gloria," Brubeck and his ensemble breathe new life into traditional hymns and liturgical texts, creating a spiritual and musical experience that is both profound and accessible.
"To Hope! A Celebration" is a testament to Brubeck's versatility and innovation as a composer and pianist. The album's 15 tracks, spanning 55 minutes, showcase his ability to seamlessly integrate jazz improvisation with the structured framework of the Mass. The result is a harmonious blend of the sacred and the improvisational, making it a standout release in Brubeck's illustrious career.
Released in 1996 under the Telarc label, this album is a must-listen for fans of jazz and those seeking a fresh perspective on sacred music. The live recording captures the energy and spontaneity of the performance, providing an intimate glimpse into Brubeck's creative process and his ability to connect with an audience on a deeply emotional level. Whether you're a longtime fan of Dave Brubeck or new to his music, "To Hope! A Celebration" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that transcends genre and tradition.
To Hope! A Celebration: I. Processional - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: II. Lord, Have Mercy - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: III. The Desert and the Parched Land - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite
To Hope! A Celebration: IV. The Peace of Jerusalem - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: V. Alleluia - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: VI. Father, All Powerful - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, Russell Gloyd, Mark Bleeke
To Hope! A Celebration: VII. Holy, Holy, Holy - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: VIII. While He Was at Supper - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, Russell Gloyd, Mark Bleeke
To Hope! A Celebration: IX. When We Eat This Bread - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: X. Through Him, with Him - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Mark Bleeke
To Hope! A Celebration: XI. Great Amen - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: XII. Our Father - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: XIII. Lamb of God - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: XIV. All My Hope - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir
To Hope! A Celebration: XV. Gloria - Live at the Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C. / June 12, 1995Dave Brubeck, Cathedral Choral Society Chorus, Cathedral Choral Society Orchestra, The Dave Brubeck Quartet, Russell Gloyd, Shelley Waite, Mark Bleeke, Kevin Deas, Duke Ellington School of the Arts Show Choir