Gorgeous playing, filled with surprises

Keeping Time: Sounding the Liturgical Year Through Jazz, Vol. 01 Nelson Boschman Trio with guests. MCC Supportive Care Services.

One of my favourite pursuits is uncovering connections between the music of seemingly unrelated genres. “Keeping Time: Sounding The Liturgical Year Through Jazz” immediately piqued my interest. This new offering, by the Nelson Boschman Trio and guests, with its well-crafted arrangements and committed, heartfelt performances, did not disappoint.

Boschman teaches worship arts at Columbia Bible College, Abbotsford, and is a familiar figure in the faith and arts communities on the West Coast. Using mostly pre-existing sacred tunes set to a variety of jazz styles, he takes us on a path through the eight stages of the liturgical year. One could listen to individual tracks on different occasions as spiritual preparation throughout the Christian calendar, or just experience the music as a whole while reflecting on jazz as a metaphor of our faith.

Continuing in the tradition of much of our sacred music with secular roots, Boschman cleverly combines tunes such as “What Wondrous Love” or “Lo, How A Rose” with subtle allusions to well-known jazz standards. The music is filled with surprises. Only after reading the liner notes did I realize that a track I had been especially enjoying was based on the first movement of Vivaldi’s Gloria.

This CD is the latest in an excellent series from Mennonite Central Committee Supportive Care Services, and an evident labour of love in all production aspects. This is gorgeous first-rate playing, recorded with clarity, good balance and tasteful understatement. This last quality could be viewed as a fault by those who feel an exploration of faith needs rougher edges or a wider dynamic palette. However, “Keeping Time” provides a range of expression to engage the soul and mind in spiritual contemplation, and would be a welcome addition to any listening library.

Andrew Klassen teaches music at Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute in Winnipeg, and also adjudicates, conducts and performs, especially as saxophonist and violist. He is a member of Elmwood MB Church.