Publisher's Synopsis
This cantata "God Made Rainbows" is a 45-minute exploration and celebration of the often complex emotions and experiences of folks who find dual identity in both the LGBT and Christian communities. Most of this cantata's narration and song lyrics were written by individuals who have consciously engaged with the struggle to step into a fuller expression of their inner knowing, while simultaneously dealing with the often ostracizing influence of traditional Christianity, especially in the religion's beliefs around people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. "God Made Rainbows" isn't meant to be preachy, or to give easy, simplistic answers. It is an offering of poetry and song that is meant to resonate with the deepest longings all humans share--for acceptance, love, freedom, community, and encounter with the Deepest Essence of All Life that some call God. This 45-minute-long musical experience is offered to help open our hearts to the experience of what it means to be human, and what it means to be on a spiritual journey together. This work is scored for 2 solo violins, harp, 1-2 narrators, 1-2 soprano soloists, baritone soloist, piano (optionally doubling with electric piano), and SATB choir. Here is the movement structure: 1. Interlude/Narration 1 (electric piano) 2. Prelude (for 2 violins, harp, and piano) 3. "One Day" for SATB choir, violin, and piano 4. Interlude/Narration 2 (electric piano) 5. "I Was Wondering" for soprano solo and piano 6. Interlude/Narration 3 (electric piano) 7. "Across Eternity" for baritone solo and piano 8. Interlude/Narration 4 (electric piano) 9. "God Made Rainbows" for soprano solo and piano 10. "Long Time Ago" for SATB choir and piano
