IMAGINE: Big Soul Project
by John R. Redmond
December 11, 2007
Dear Yoko Ono Lennon & Friends,
Imagine.
It was magical!
On the evening of Saturday, December 8, 2007, on the 27th anniversary of John Lennon's passing, Big Soul Project, Ottawa's gospel and groove choir & band performed 'Imagine' during its annual holiday concert to an audience of about 900.
It was a very special evening at Dominion-Chalmers United Church. This historic church is a cherished performance venue in downtown Ottawa, Canada's national capital. The church Sanctuary is square in shape, featuring a high domed ceiling. Seating is arranged on a slope inclining from the front of the Sanctuary and a balcony wraps around three sides of the hall. The hall's colours are golden and warm. The acoustics are heavenly.
I was thrilled, honoured and inspired to be chosen as the soloist for 'Imagine.' Before we began our performance, I took the opportunity to tell those gathered about the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER.
Many 'wishes' were collected, which we will forward to Reykjavik.
Our gifted Music Director, Elise Letourneau, had crafted a wonderful arrangement that invited audience participation. After the choir performed the first two verses, the band played an instrumental section, and after the third verse, the choir began a repeated chorus of 'Imagine Peace'. At that point, the audience joined in and together we sang, 'Imagine Peace.' To finish, soloist, choir and band repeated the chorus and ending. The audience rose and gave a standing ovation.
A member of the audience sent me an e-mail later that night, saying, 'What a wonderful evening... my friend Marlene and I were feeling so much good energy when you spoke and sang "Imagine"... it was truly magical....'
Together we did manifest magic that evening.
Thank you for your spirit.
Thank you for the message - 'Imagine'.
We treasure both the message and the messenger.
With love and wishes for Peace,
John R. Redmond
P.S. Attached is an mp3 file of Big Soul Project's live performance of 'Imagine' on December 8, 2007 recorded by a single
tiny mike positioned in the middle of the hall.
Attached are photos of Big Soul Project performing Dec. 8, 2007 including a photo of 'Imagine' soloist John Redmond encouraging the audience to join in the singing of imagine peace. Photos were taken by Jake Morrison and are shared with his permission.
More photos of Big Soul Project performing on Dec. 8, 2007
More info about Big Soul Project and Dominion-Chalmers United Church.
You can take a virtual tour plus see photos of Big Soul Project when they opened there for the Blind Boys of Alabama.
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